5 Signs It’s Time to See an ENT
(and Not Just Your Primary Doctor)

5 Signs It’s Time to See an ENT in Fall River, MA

Here are five signs that may tell you it’s time to consider scheduling an appointment with an ENT specialist in Fall River, MA:

#1: Chronic or persistent ENT issues

Your primary care provider (PCP) is equipped to address a wide variety of ENT-related issues. However, more complex or chronic issues beyond their scope of practice may warrant a referral to an ENT specialist. Your primary doctor can help determine if seeing a specialist is appropriate for your condition.

• Chronic sinusitis
  Sinusitis is characterized by the irritation, swelling, or inflammation of the tissues lining the sinuses. The sinuses are hollow, air-filled spaces behind the nose, cheeks, and forehead. Sometimes, they become irritated due to a number of issues, such as allergies, bacterial infections, and viral infections.Another common cause of sinusitis is nasal polyps, which are excess tissue growth along the lining of the sinuses. They cause a blockage in the sinus passages, preventing mucus drainage, and can contribute to conditions that may increase the risk of an infection.
• Recurring ear infections
  Young children aged six months to two years are more susceptible to ear infections due to the size and shape of their middle ears and eustachian tubes. If left untreated in children, they may sometimes be associated with hearing, speech, or balance issues. An ENT specialist can assess your child’s risks.Although more common in children, it is still possible for adults to develop ear infections. In rare cases, untreated ear infections in adults may be linked to a more serious health issue. A consultation with an ENT can guide you through diagnosis and testing.
• Severe sinus pain and pressure
  Sinus pain and pressure, especially around the nose, eyes, cheeks, and forehead, are often present when someone is dealing with symptoms of allergies or sinus infections. Typically, the pain and pressure around the sinus area resolve once the sinus issue resolves. However, if they don’t go away despite treatment or the pain worsens, your primary doctor may refer you to a specialist for further testing.
• Persistent sore or scratchy throat
  A sore or scratchy throat is a common problem for many people, and typically goes away on its own. However, a sore throat or voice hoarseness that doesn’t seem to get better over time may indicate a more serious throat issue. A specialist can examine your throat and vocal cords to explore potential contributing factors.
• Frequent nosebleeds
  Nosebleeds are a common occurrence, especially in cold or dry climates. However, frequent and often unexplained nosebleeds can indicate a more serious underlying issue, such as a bleeding disorder. An ENT specialist can help evaluate your symptoms and may request further testing if an underlying issue is suspected.

#2: Hearing issues

If you find yourself having to turn up the volume of your TV or phone more than usual, or ask people to repeat themselves because you didn’t hear them the first time, you might be noticing signs that could indicate hearing changes, but other temporary causes are also possible. Several factors can cause this, such as earwax buildup, an ear infection, and, in rare cases, a ruptured eardrum. An ENT specialist can assess your symptoms and explore potential causes.

Tinnitus, which is characterized by a constant ringing in the ears, may also warrant a visit to a specialist to assess for potential causes.

#3: Severe snoring or sleep apnea

While occasional and mild snoring is normal and harmless, excessive and severe snoring can become a problem and might indicate a more serious sleep disorder called sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea is characterized by a cycle of breathing pauses during sleep. This is due to an obstruction in the airways. The breathing pauses may reduce oxygen levels in the brain, causing the person to suddenly jolt awake and gasp for air.

This can disrupt sleep and has been associated with increased health risks, including high blood pressure, according to some medical studies. Individual risk can vary, and your ENT care provider can assess yours.

#4: Dizziness or balance issues

Dizziness is a common short-term issue for many people and is often due to a sudden movement of the head or standing up too quickly. However, persistent dizziness and problems with maintaining your balance may be due to underlying inner ear issues.

These may sometimes be associated with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) or some other complex vestibular disorder. A visit to an ENT specialist can help evaluate your symptoms and may refer you to other specialists for further evaluation if needed.

#5: Enlarged lymph nodes

Lymph nodes are present in the head and neck to help the body fight off infections. Sometimes, they can become swollen, or unexplained lumps, masses, or bumps can appear in the head or neck. When these seem to last longer than two weeks or grow larger, consider scheduling an appointment with an ENT specialist.

Disclaimer: Not all symptoms listed above will require specialized ENT care. Consult with your primary care provider to help determine if a specialist consultation is necessary for your condition.

Frequently Asked Questions About ENTs in Fall River

What is an ENT?

An ENT, also known as an otolaryngologist in healthcare settings, is a healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and treating issues and conditions affecting the ears, nose, and throat. Some ENT doctors choose to pursue further specialized training in subspecialties concerning the head, neck, mouth, and facial features.

What is the difference between a primary doctor and an ENT?

A primary doctor is equipped to treat mild and acute ENT-related issues. However, they may refer you to an ENT specialist if your condition is more complex or chronic, which will benefit from the specialized expertise of a specialist. A consultation with your primary doctor can help determine if you should see an ENT specialist.

Choosing the Right Fall River ENT Clinic Near Me

New England Breathe Free is an ENT care provider serving the residents of Fall River and the surrounding communities. Patients who wish to learn more about our clinic and services can visit and explore our website or contact our team directly.