When you have a chronic illness like asthma, it’s important to be extra cautious about staying healthy. Reducing stress and avoiding allergens like pollen can go a long way in keeping your symptoms at bay. Keeping your home clean by vacuuming regularly, using humidifiers when the air gets dry, and washing bedding frequently are other great ways to reduce stress and avoid allergens.
Fortunately, there are also many things you can do proactively to keep your ears, nose, and throat healthy as well. Visiting an otolaryngologist (aka an ENT doctor) once a year is one of the best things you can do for your chronic disease management plan. Here’s what you need to know before visiting the best ENT doctor—and some tips on how to prepare beforehand!
What Is an Otolaryngologist?
An otolaryngologist, or ENT, is a doctor who specializes in diseases and disorders affecting the ears, nose, throat, and head and neck regions. These specialists frequently treat patients with chronic diseases such as asthma and allergies, as well as people with hearing and swallowing disorders. Most ENTs work in private practice and are licensed to diagnose and treat illnesses. However, some ENTs are employed by hospitals and may only be able to provide treatment. The specialties of otolaryngologists differ depending on the area of the head and neck they specialize in.
The Importance of Visiting an ENT Doctor
Maintaining good overall health is important for people living with chronic illnesses like asthma. Visiting an ENT doctor is one of the best ways to keep your chronic disease under control. An ENT doctor can help you with the following:
- Understanding your condition – Many chronic diseases are complex, especially those that affect the ears, nose, and throat. It’s important to educate yourself about your condition and what treatments are available so you can be an active participant in your care.
- Reducing your risk for complications – Some chronic diseases can cause serious complications over time, particularly if left untreated. Visiting an ENT doctor can help you reduce your risk of complications by prescribing medications and using other treatments that are right for you.
- Feeling more in control – Having a chronic illness can be stressful and overwhelming, which can cause you to feel out of control. Visiting an ENT doctor can put you back in the driver’s seat and help you feel more empowered to manage your condition.
Before You Visit Your ENT Doctor
- Make a list of any questions or concerns you have – Bringing a list of questions to your appointment is a great way to make sure all your questions are answered.
- Write down your medical history – Your medical history is an important part of your health care. Your doctor may ask about your family’s health history, allergies, and previous surgeries or other medical procedures.
- Bring all of your medications – If you are currently taking medications related to your chronic illness, be sure to bring them with you to your appointment.
What to Expect During Your Visit
- Your first appointment with an ENT doctor is likely to last anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. Subsequent appointments are usually shorter.
- You’ll likely complete a medical history form and have your general health assessed, including your breathing, swallowing, and hearing.
- Your doctor will also perform a thorough ear, nose, and throat exam, which usually includes looking at your ears, nose, and throat with a small light and mirror, and feeling the inside of your ears, nose, and throat.
- If you have allergies, you may be given a skin test to determine what allergens may be triggering your symptoms.
- You may also be given a hearing and breathing test to determine how well the different systems in your ears and lungs are working.
- Your doctor will likely give you a clean bill of health and discuss any changes or additions to your current treatment plan.
Conclusion
Visiting an ENT doctor is an important part of managing your chronic illness. Your ENT doctor can provide you with valuable information about your condition, help you manage your symptoms, and help reduce your risk of complications. If you have a chronic illness such as asthma, it’s important to visit your ENT doctor once a year.