General ENT Disorders

The ear, nose, and throat (ENT) region is responsible for key functions that directly affect daily quality of life, including breathing, hearing, balance, smell, and swallowing. A general ENT (otolaryngology) examination is the essential first step to establish an accurate diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment early—both for acute conditions (e.g., infections) and chronic complaints (e.g., nasal obstruction, allergic rhinitis, reflux-related throat symptoms)

When is an ENT examination recommended?

If you experience any of the symptoms below, an ENT evaluation is advised.

Nasal and sinus symptoms

• Nasal congestion, snoring, sleeping with the mouth open, drooling during sleep
• Frequent sinusitis / facial pain / postnasal drip
• Recurrent sneezing; itching in the nose, throat, or ears
• Reduced sense of smell
• Nosebleeds, nasal discharge

Throat and swallowing symptoms

• Sore throat, difficulty swallowing
• Hoarseness, sensation of something “stuck” in the throat (globus sensation)
• Postnasal drip, cough, runny nose
• Suspected reflux (LPR): burning sensation, throat irritation, frequent throat clearing

Ear symptoms

• Ear pain, fullness, pressure, or a blocked-ear sensation
• Ear discharge
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Hearing loss
• Recurrent middle ear infections

Dizziness and balance problems

• Spinning sensation (vertigo), imbalance
• Ear fullness and/or tinnitus accompanying dizziness

Note: You may also visit the related pages for “Pediatric conditions,” “Ear and hearing disorders,” and “Dizziness/Vertigo.

What is assessed during the examination?

A general ENT evaluation includes a detailed symptom history, endoscopic examination, and—rarely—additional diagnostic tests when clinically necessary. The goal is not only to relieve symptoms, but also to identify and treat the underlying cause.

Common assessments

• Examination of the ear canal and eardrum (using a microscope and/or endoscopic video camera)
• Nasal cavity evaluation (endoscopic video examination)
• Assessment of the throat, tonsils, larynx, and vocal cords (endoscopic video examination)
• Neck examination (lymph nodes, salivary glands, etc.)

Tests that may be requested when needed

• Hearing tests (audiometry) and middle ear pressure measurement (tympanometry)
• Referral and planning when allergy is suspected
• Imaging referral for suspected sinus disease (based on clinical need

Treatment approach

ENT treatment is tailored to the diagnosis and individual needs. A detailed medical history and endoscopic examination are often necessary for accurate diagnosis. In many cases, significant improvement can be achieved with medication and lifestyle adjustments; in some situations, minor in-office procedures or more advanced treatments may be considered

When should I seek urgent evaluation?

An urgent ENT assessment is recommended if you have:

• Sudden hearing loss
• Severe dizziness/vertigo (especially with vomiting and/or loss of balance)
• One-sided ear pain with fever
• Persistent hoarseness (especially lasting longer than 2–3 weeks)
• Frequent recurrent nosebleeds
• A rapidly enlarging neck mass
• Non-healing wounds/lesions in the head and neck regio

Appointment & Contact

When the cause of your symptoms is identified accurately and on time, treatment becomes faster and more long-lasting.

For an appointment: https://timurbatmaz.com.tr/iletisim

All services: https://timurbatmaz.com.tr/en/our-service 

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a general ENT examination take?

It depends on the scope of the complaint. During the initial visit, a history and physical examination are performed, and an endoscopic assessment may be added if needed to plan further management.

Does nasal congestion always mean sinusitis?

No. Allergic rhinitis, turbinate enlargement, septal deviation, adenoid hypertrophy (in children), reflux, and many other conditions can cause nasal obstruction.

Is headache a sign of sinusitis?

Contrary to popular belief, headache alone is not a definitive sign of sinusitis. Other accompanying symptoms are usually required.

When is hoarseness concerning?

If it lasts longer than 2–3 weeks or recurs frequently, it should be evaluated.

Can dizziness be related to ENT problems?

Yes. ENT evaluation is important in inner-ear–related vertigo or balance disorders.

Is ear irrigation harmful? Does it cause dependence?

Contrary to common belief, it is not harmful when medically indicated. Ear irrigation is a traditional method. In our clinic, ear examination and, when needed, earwax removal are performed using a microscope with suction (vacuum aspiration).