Ear Nose and Throat Diseases
Ear Nose and Throat Diseases
Otorhinolaryngology, the medical branch that covers ear, nose, and throat diseases, also deals with diseases in the head and neck regions. ENT specialists diagnose and treat hearing and speech disorders, inner ear and balance problems, ear infections, tinnitus, nasal and sinus issues, throat, larynx, and respiratory problems. Diagnostic methods include advanced technologies such as endoscopy, X-rays, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. These specialists also perform maneuver treatments for dizziness and, when necessary, surgical interventions. Since ear, nose, and throat diseases can be related to many systems of the body, a multidisciplinary approach is adopted in the diagnosis and treatment process, and cooperation is established with physicians from different specialties.
Snoring
Snoring is caused by the vibration in the throat during breathing as the airway partially closes, significantly reducing sleep quality. If there is a cessation of breathing during snoring, sleep apnea should be considered. Although snoring is usually related to the structures of the nose, mouth, and throat, various factors such as weight gain, fatigue, allergies, insomnia, tonsil enlargement, cold, and pregnancy can also lead to snoring.
However, in some cases, snoring may be a sign of serious health problems such as high blood pressure or heart diseases. Individuals who experience snoring may also show symptoms such as sore throat, fatigue, palpitations, insomnia, and irritability. The diagnosis of snoring typically begins when the patient or those around them notice the problem and consult a doctor. The doctor may use imaging techniques such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging to assess the structural integrity of the nose, throat, and mouth regions. Additionally, endoscopy may be used to observe problems in the airways. If sleep apnea is suspected, tests conducted in sleep laboratories examine the patient's heart rate, breathing pattern, and brain waves during sleep.
After determining the causes of snoring, the doctor creates a treatment plan aimed at the source of the problem. If the issue is due to another illness, treating that illness may also resolve the snoring. However, some types of snoring may persist even after other health issues are addressed. In such cases, the doctor may recommend that patients make lifestyle changes, maintain weight control, and adjust their sleep patterns. Although snoring may seem like a simple problem, it can be a sign of underlying serious health issues, which is why it's important to undergo the necessary health screenings. This way, patients can address any serious health issues they may have or improve their quality of life by eliminating the snoring problem.
Dizziness (Vertigo)
Vertigo is a disease characterized by dizziness, which increases with movement and leads to intense loss of balance. Vertigo is divided into two groups based on its characteristics. Central vertigo results from causes such as injuries, bleeding, or tumors in the central nervous system, including the brain, brainstem, and cerebellum. Peripheral vertigo, on the other hand, occurs due to the displacement of ear crystals called utricle and saccule, which play a role in balance perception within the semicircular canals of the inner ear.
The incorrect positioning of these crystals increases dizziness related to movement. The dizziness can last as short as a few seconds or as long as several hours, and it can occur in the form of attacks independent of the patient's movements. Vertigo can be a symptom of an underlying disease and may be accompanied by severe balance loss, darkened vision, nausea, a feeling of pressure in the ear, low blood pressure, and tinnitus. Dizziness can lead to a risk of falling, and in some cases, the patient may lose their judgment ability during an attack.
Patients experiencing such symptoms should consult a doctor immediately to protect themselves from the risks of dizziness and to identify any underlying diseases. The majority of vertigo cases are caused by problems originating from the inner ear. To detect these issues, the doctor may apply some clinical tests. Using an electronystagmography device, involuntary eye movements during dizziness can be detected, helping to identify the source of the problem in the inner ear. Additionally, imaging methods such as computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging may be used to detect central vertigo.
Once the cause of vertigo is determined, the doctor will develop an appropriate treatment procedure for the patient. In cases where vertigo is caused by the displacement of the inner ear crystals, the doctor will apply a treatment to reposition the crystals. If vertigo is caused by another disease such as a tumor, injury, bleeding, or infection, the doctor will recommend medication or surgical treatment appropriate to the disease. Vertigo can be resolved with accurate diagnosis and treatment, allowing patients to regain their health.
Sinusitis
The air-filled spaces around our nasal passages, known as sinuses, serve functions such as warming the air we breathe, adjusting the acoustic properties of our voice, and reducing the weight of our head. The sinuses are lined with a moist surface called mucosa, which continuously secretes mucus. Sinusitis occurs when the mucosa inside the sinuses becomes infected by bacteria or viruses. Factors such as structural abnormalities in the nose, sports like diving and swimming that may allow bacteria and viruses to enter the sinuses, smoking, and dental infections increase the risk of sinusitis and complicate its treatment.
Patients with sinusitis may experience symptoms such as nasal discharge lasting more than a week, postnasal drip leading to a cough, fever, bad breath, reduced or lost sense of smell, pain and pressure around the nose and eyes, pain with eye movements, headaches, and changes in voice tone. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should consult a doctor immediately to prevent the infection from progressing. For diagnosing sinusitis, the doctor conducts clinical evaluations related to the disease. Additionally, imaging methods such as X-rays and computed tomography are used to examine the nasal structure and the fullness of the sinuses, and nasal culture and blood tests are performed to analyze the infection.
In the treatment of sinusitis, if a bacterial infection is detected, antibiotic therapy is initiated. Pain relievers may be recommended for facial pain caused by sinus fullness, and nasal sprays and irrigation devices may be used to help drain the inflammation into the nasal cavity. Medications can also be administered for symptoms such as fever and cough caused by the infection. If an allergic condition is identified as the source of sinusitis, anti-allergy medications are used, and the patient may be referred to an immunologist if necessary. In cases of uncontrolled, severe, and recurrent sinusitis, surgical treatment may be considered. However, medication treatments may need to continue even after surgery. Even patients with chronic sinusitis can greatly benefit from these treatment methods. With current treatment options, sinusitis is a controllable and curable condition.
