When to visit an otolaryngologist

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Otolaryngologists are physicians who specialize in diseases and conditions concerning the ears, nose, and throat. They are more commonly known as ENT physicians and are trained in the medical and surgical management of illnesses in the head and neck. This specialization is considered the oldest by the medical community in the United States. Many visit their ENT doctor several times a year to treat a variety of conditions, such as the ones listed below:

Ear: Hearing impairment, ear infections, tinnitus, pain, congenital ear disorders

Nose: Problems affecting smell, breathing, and physical appearance (rhinoplasty may be considered)

Throat: Conditions that affect speech, singing, eating, swallowing, and digestion

Others: Diseases, tumors, trauma, and deformities of the head, neck, and face

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Many otolaryngologists are also trained to perform cosmetic and reconstructive surgery in these areas. ENT specialists also help manage and treat nerve problems in the head and neck that could affect sight, hearing, and facial movements.

Most of the human body’s functions depend on the ability to hear, smell, or taste. These senses are interdependent of each other, with co-morbidity between conditions being extremely high. Treatment plans typically involve addressing several symptoms at once. Patients are recommended to visit their local otolaryngologist once they begin to experience difficulty, or are suffering from any degree of pain in any of these areas. Pain is a great indicator of a problem and is often considered the first sign of an illness.

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Dr. Robert R. Beltran is a reputable and experienced otolaryngologist. Find out more about this field of medicine by visiting this Google+ page.

Asthma and rhinoplasty: What you should know

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Rhinoplasty is a procedure that involves the reconstruction of nasal bones, often changing the shape and angle of the nose. While there are some cosmetic benefits to rhinoplasty, most patients undergo the surgery to correct impaired breathing caused by birth defects or injury. The entire process, including recovery, takes around 10 to 14 days, with the end result being a more proportionate face and better breathing.

Rhinoplasty is often considered as the final option for breathing conditions or disorders as this is a major and traumatic event for the body. It should only be considered if no other treatment option provides relief to the symptoms.

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This treatment option is sometimes considered for people suffering from asthma, only this is generally not recommended. Many otolaryngologists suggest other methods of managing asthma as the condition will not be treated properly with a rhinoplastic plan. The surgery only addresses mechanical obstruction through the nasal passages. These may or may not improve the asthmatic condition.

Asthma is a respiratory condition, with the cause normally found within the lungs. Difficulty in breathing occurs due to an allergic reaction or some sort of hypersensitivity (such as stress). Rhinoplasty may improve the condition partially with a bigger nasal passage, but again, this would only address a small part of the condition and would otherwise prove ineffective as a total treatment plan.

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Learn more about rhinoplasty and other news on otolaryngology by visiting Dr. Robert R. Beltran, M.D.’s LinkedIn page.