ENT emergencies can range from minor annoyances to life-threatening scenarios. People with ENT (ear, nose, and throat) disorders can experience a range of issues, from dizziness and hearing loss to lacerations and breathing difficulties.
Though most cases can be addressed through routine care, such as oral medications, at-home remedies, and lifestyle changes, some require immediate medical attention.
When to See a Doctor for ENT Emergencies
If you’re unsure about the severity of your otorhinolaryngology or ENT symptoms, it’s always best to bring your concerns to the attention of a healthcare professional. That being said, knowing when to seek medical attention without delay is important. Here are some of the common indications that an ENT emergency might be underway:
Worsening Earache or Abnormal Drainage
An earache is often a symptom of an underlying ear infection, but if left untreated, it can become a serious infection. Additionally, abnormal drainage from your ear can be a sign of a punctured eardrum. If you experience the earlier mentioned symptoms, it’s best to seek medical care immediately.
Sudden Onset of Tinnitus
Also referred to as the “ringing in the ears,” tinnitus is the perception of a sound in the absence of an external source. It can be a result of a hearing disorder or an alternate side effect of an underlying health condition. If it’s sudden in onset and appears to be getting louder or more frequent, an ENT in Manila should be consulted.
Severe Nasal Blockage
A blocked nose can typically be alleviated through cold and allergy medications and lifestyle changes like reducing air pollution in your home. However, if the blockage feels more severe than usual or persists for more than a week, it’s time to seek medical attention.
Throat Swelling
Swelling around the throat region is often a symptom of an infection and can be potentially serious. If your throat is swollen and tight, contact your doctor immediately.
Labored Breathing
If you’re having difficulty breathing or breathing is labored, seek medical attention immediately. This could be a sign of a condition related to the throat, nose, or lungs; the earlier it’s treated, the better.
To conveniently book an appointment with an ENT today, you can leverage telemedicine platforms like NowServing. Such application bridges the gap between doctors and patients, enabling healthcare professionals to deliver better healthcare to Filipinos.
