30 Ear-Nose-Throat (Ent) Specialists available in Mumbai

What does an ENT specialist do?

An ENT specialist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of ear, nose, and throat related conditions and disorders. They also deal with the head and neck related diseases. ENT specialists are also referred to as Otolaryngologists.

What are the qualifications should an Ear-Nose-Throat (ENT) specialist possesses?

A 5-year medical degree [MBBS] that is recognized by the General Medical Council and a 2-year foundation course of general training are the basic requirements for an individual to be a doctor. However, the following are the specialties or extra qualifications required to be an ENT Specialist:

• Diploma in Otorhinolaryngology (DLO)
• Diploma in ENT
• DNB - ENT
• DNB - Otorhinolaryngology
• Diplomate in American Board of Otolaryngology
• MRCS - ENT
• MS - ENT
• Ph.D. - ENT
• FCPS - Oto-Rhino-Laryngology
• CCST - Otolaryngology
• FRCS - Otolaryngology    

When should an individual consult an ENT specialist?

Individuals who are suffering from any of these diseases or infections can consult ENT specialist.

• Ear infection (Otitis media)
• Hearing loss
• Hoarseness
• Snoring
• Dysphagia (Difficulty swallowing)
• Injury to ear, nose or throat
• Nosebleeds
• Hearing aids
• Cholesteatoma
• Sleep apnea
• Sinusitis
• Swimmer’s ear (Otitis Externa)
• Asthma
• Dizziness
• Meniere's disease
• Tonsils & adenoid problems
• Tinnitus (Ringing in the ears)

Why are children prone to suffer from ear infections a lot?

Children of age group 1-3 years are easily affected by ear infections. They are susceptible to viral and bacterial infections because of their short and developing eustachian tubes. These infections cause fluid accumulation in the middle ear leading to swelling and blockages in the ear.

What are the common causes of hoarseness?

Hoarseness is due to the inflammation of the larynx which is commonly called a voice box. The most common causes of hoarseness are acute upper respiratory infections, inhalation of respiratory irritants, postnasal drip, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Some of the other causes include smoking, thyroid problems, benign tumors of vocal cords, and neurological disorders (Parkinson’s disease).

Is it mandatory to consult an ENT specialist if an individual suffers from periodical breath stops during sleep?

Yes, it is highly recommended to consult an ENT when an individual is suffering from periodical breath stops during sleep. It is a common symptom of a condition called obstructive sleep apnea. This increases the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, heart attack, and strokes if sleep apnea left untreated.

Why does an individual hear ringing in their ears?

Ringing in the ears is called Tinnitus. It is one of the conditions of upper respiratory tract infection in which inner ear hair cell damage occurs leading to impairment in nerve impulse conduction. This may lead to hearing loss, dizziness, memory, and concentration problems. Tinnitus usually worsens with age and identifying underlying causes helps in the treatment.

What is Meniere's disease?

Meniere's disease is a chronic condition in which damage occurs in the inner ear, especially the semicircular canal. It is caused by an increase in fluid pressure within the inner ear structures. Ringing in ears, frequent episodes of vertigo, hearing loss are common symptoms of this disease.