Almost everyone has suffered from diseases of ear nose and throat at some point in their lives. These organs form part of the upper airways system and are most vulnerable to infection especially during the cold season.
There are different types of diseases that affect the ear nose and throat, and it is advisable to consult a specialist if you suspect there is a problem. Here are the common symptoms that can help you understand whether there is a need to see a doctor. It should be noted that these are not the only symptoms.
Ear
For the purposes of treatment, it is always good to identify symptoms early associated with ear infections early. Notably, failure to respond to these symptoms can lead to more damage. The most common ear infection symptoms include;
- Pain or discomfort in the ear
- Loss of stability or balance
- Fever
- Vomiting and nausea
- Abnormal discharge from the ear
The most probable cause of ear diseases is germs that are trapped inside the inner ear which enter through the Eustachian tube. This happens if there are harmful microbes and bacteria in the tube. Children are most susceptible to ear infections and a common sign is frequent tugging on the ears.
Throat
The throat may get infected by different pathogens, and this may manifest itself in a number of ways. Although symptoms may feel the same most of the time, there are actually different types of infections depending on the bacteria or virus involved. The common symptoms are;
- Inflamed sore throat
- Swollen tonsils and lymph nodes
- Difficulty in swallowing
- White patches around the throat
Getting in contact with someone who has this infection will expose you to the same infection after a while.
Nose
Just like the ear, there are diseases that also affect the nasal passage way. Unlike in the other organs, it is easier to notice if you have a nasal infection because of the nose’s function. A common ailment is sinusitis, which affects many people. It is as a result of germs in the hollow recesses of the skull around the eyes and nose. It is characterized by;
- Fever
- Discharge
- Congestion
- Toothache
- Fatigue
Sleep apnea is also a common disease that affects the nose. Basically, this disease causes you to stop breathing for a period of time. It is characterized by waking up at night, morning headaches and drowsiness, among other symptoms.
Most of these diseases can be treated by good doctors such as the sinus doctor, so do not hesitate to book an appointment.