ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat)

Hearing loss can arise from earwax, middle-ear disease or inner-ear and nerve damage. Sudden hearing loss needs urgent assessment because early treatment may matter.

Ear infections can affect the outer canal or middle ear. Pain, discharge or reduced hearing may occur, with treatment depending on the part involved.

Tinnitus is hearing a sound, such as ringing, without an external source. Persistent one-sided or pulse-like tinnitus needs review for an underlying cause.

Vertigo is a false sense of movement, often related to the inner ear. Episode duration, triggers and hearing symptoms help distinguish common balance disorders.

Allergic rhinitis is inflammation of the nose triggered by allergens. Sneezing, itching, watery discharge and blockage commonly occur together.

Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinus lining, often following a viral infection. Persistent or recurrent symptoms differ from a short-lived cold and may need further assessment.

Nasal polyps are benign inflammatory growths inside the nose or sinuses. They can cause blockage and reduced smell and may recur after treatment.

A deviated nasal septum is displacement of the wall dividing the nostrils. It may restrict airflow, although not every deviation causes symptoms or requires surgery.

Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, usually from infection. Fever, throat pain and painful swallowing are common; difficulty breathing or swallowing fluids needs urgent review.

Enlarged or infected adenoids can cause nasal blockage, mouth breathing or middle-ear problems, particularly in children. Snoring or disrupted sleep may be associated.

Voice and throat disorders may involve inflammation, vocal strain or growths. A persistent voice change, particularly with swallowing difficulty or a neck lump, warrants examination.

Swallowing disorders can affect movement of food from mouth to stomach. Coughing during meals, food sticking or unexplained weight loss should prompt assessment.

Sleep-related airway obstruction can cause snoring and repeated breathing pauses. Nasal and throat anatomy may contribute, but snoring alone does not establish sleep apnoea.

Head and neck lumps may arise from lymph nodes, salivary glands or other tissues. A persistent or enlarging lump needs assessment even when painless.