Otolaryngology, also popularly known as ear, nose and throat (ENT), is the branch of medicine that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of ear, nose, throat, and head and neck disorders. The term otolaryngology comes from Greek (oto = ear, laryngo = larynx/throat, logy = study).

• What is an Otolaryngologist?
• How are ear, nose and throat specialists trained?

What is an Otolaryngologist?

An otolaryngologist (ENT doctor) is one of the oldest medical specialties in the United States.* Otolaryngologists diagnose and treat conditions that effect the sinuses, larynx (voice box), oral cavity, and upper pharynx (mouth and throat), as well as structures of the neck and face in both children and adults.

For the ear, otolaryngologists are trained in both the medical and surgical treatment of hearing, ear infections, balance disorders, ear noise (tinnitus), nerve pain, and facial and cranial nerve disorders. Otolaryngologists also manage congenital (birth) disorders of the outer and inner ear.

In the nose, they treat sinusitis, nasal cavity and sinus problems and problems with smelling.

In the throat, otolaryngologists are vital in treating problems that effect speech, singing and problems eating. They treat diseases of the larynx (voice box) and the upper aero-digestive tract or esophagus, including voice and swallowing disorders.

In the head and neck, they provide diagnosis and treatment of the important nerves that pass from the brain to all areas of the body that effect the senses and movement. In the head and neck area, an ENT doctor also treats infections, tumors and injuries and deformities of the face. They often perform both cosmetic plastic and reconstructive surgery.

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How are ear, nose and throat specialists trained?

Otolaryngologists follow the same course of training that all doctors do, which include college, medical school and residency. Following general medical education an ENT doctor will spend at least five years of training in this specialty. Next, the physician must pass the American Board of Otolaryngology examination. In addition, some otolaryngologists pursue a one or two year fellowship for more extensive training in one of eight subspecialty areas.

Source: American Academy of Otolaryngology
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