Understanding Adult ENT: Common Conditions, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options
Maintaining ear, nose, and throat (ENT) health is essential for overall well-being, yet many adults experience conditions that can disrupt daily life. From chronic sinus infections to hearing loss and sleep apnea, ENT disorders can impact breathing, communication, and quality of sleep. At C/V ENT Surgical Group, our expert specialists provide advanced care for a wide range of ENT conditions, helping patients throughout Los Angeles find relief and long-term solutions.
This in-depth guide explores common adult ENT conditions, their symptoms, diagnostic methods, and the most effective treatment options available.
Common Adult ENT Conditions Treated at C/V ENT Surgical Group
Sinus Infections in Adults
Sinus infections (sinusitis) occur when the sinuses become inflamed due to infection, allergies, or structural issues. Los Angeles’ air pollution and high pollen counts can contribute to frequent sinus problems.
Symptoms:
- Facial pressure or pain
- Nasal congestion and thick mucus
- Reduced sense of smell
- Postnasal drip and cough
Treatment Options at C/V ENT Surgical Group:
Medical Management
Prescription medications, nasal corticosteroids, and decongestants.
Balloon Sinuplasty
A minimally invasive procedure to open blocked sinuses.
Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
For chronic sinusitis cases that don’t respond to medications.
In-Office Turbinate Reduction Surgery
A minimally invasive procedure to reduce nasal congestion by shrinking swollen turbinates.
Septoplasty
A surgical procedure to straighten a deviated septum, improving airflow and breathing.
Nasal Polyp Surgery
A procedure to remove nasal polyp, reducing blockages and improving sinus health.
Our sinus specialists in Los Angeles provide customized treatments to address acute and chronic sinus conditions effectively.
Hearing Loss and Tinnitus Management
Hearing issues can arise from aging, noise exposure, infections, or inner ear disorders. Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) can also be a persistent problem for many adults.
Symptoms:
- Difficulty understanding speech
- Needing higher volumes for television and phone calls
- Persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing in the ears
Treatment at C/V ENT Surgical Group:
- Comprehensive Hearing Evaluations to assess hearing loss severity.
- Hearing Aids and Assistive Devices tailored to individual needs.
- Tinnitus Management Therapies, including sound therapy and medication options.
Our Los Angeles ENT specialists work closely with audiologists to provide advanced hearing care.
Sleep Apnea, Snoring, and Breathing Problems
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, often leading to loud snoring, fatigue, and other health issues.
Symptoms:
- Loud snoring and choking during sleep
- Daytime sleepiness and morning headaches
- Waking up feeling unrefreshed
Treatment at C/V ENT Surgical Group:
- CPAP Therapy to keep the airway open during sleep.
- Oral Appliances designed to reposition the jaw and tongue.
- Surgical Interventions, including tonsillectomy or nasal surgery, for severe cases.
We offer comprehensive sleep apnea evaluations and treatments to help patients breathe easier at night.
Allergies and Sinus Care
Allergies can trigger sinus congestion, postnasal drip, and other persistent symptoms. Our ENT specialists in Los Angeles provide expert allergy diagnosis and treatment.
Common Allergy Symptoms:
- Sneezing, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion
- Chronic sinus pressure and headaches
- Postnasal drip and throat irritation
Treatment Approaches:
- Allergy Testing to identify specific triggers.
- Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots or Drops) for long-term relief.
- Nasal Steroid Sprays and Antihistamines to manage symptoms.
If you suffer from chronic sinus infections or allergy-related ENT issues, we offer personalized solutions to help you find relief.
Hoarseness and Voice Disorders
Changes in voice quality can be due to vocal strain, infections, or underlying medical conditions.
Symptoms:
- Persistent hoarseness or raspiness
- Throat discomfort or frequent clearing
- Loss of voice or vocal fatigue
Treatment at C/V ENT Surgical Group:
- Voice Therapy for vocal cord rehabilitation.
- Medications to treat acid reflux-related voice disorders.
- Surgical Procedures for vocal cord polyps or nodules.
Our Los Angeles ENT specialists help patients restore their voice and prevent further damage.
Also Read: Can You Have an Ear Infection Without a Fever in Adults?
Nasal Congestion and Chronic Sore Throat
Ongoing nasal congestion or sore throat can signal underlying ENT conditions such as allergies, sinusitis, or acid reflux.
Common Causes:
- Allergies and sinus infections
- Deviated septum blocking airflow
- GERD (acid reflux) irritating the throat
Treatment Options:
- Medications like antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays.
- Septoplasty Surgery for structural issues affecting breathing.
- Lifestyle Modifications, including hydration and dietary adjustments for acid reflux.
Our ENT experts provide advanced nasal congestion treatment and chronic sore throat solutions in Los Angeles.
Tonsillectomy in Adults
While tonsillectomy is often associated with children, adults may require the procedure for recurrent infections or breathing issues.
When is a Tonsillectomy Needed?
- Recurrent tonsillitis (multiple infections per year)
- Enlarged tonsils causing sleep apnea
- Persistent sore throat and difficulty swallowing
Procedure and Recovery:
- Performed under general anesthesia
- Recovery time of 1-2 weeks, with pain management strategies provided
At C/V ENT Surgical Group, we specialize in safe and effective adult tonsillectomy procedures for improved health and quality of life.
Vertigo and Balance Disorders
Inner ear problems can cause dizziness, affecting stability and daily activities.
Symptoms:
- Sensation of spinning (vertigo)
- Difficulty maintaining balance
- Nausea and motion sensitivity
We offer specialized vertigo treatment in Los Angeles to help patients regain balance and confidence.
FAQs on Adult ENT Care – C/V ENT Surgical Group
What does an Adult ENT specialist treat?
An Adult ENT specialist, also known as an otolaryngologist, diagnoses and treats conditions that affect the ears, nose, throat (ENT), sinuses, voice box (larynx), and balance system. These specialists provide both medical and surgical treatments for a wide range of issues, from common infections to complex disorders.
Common Conditions Treated by Adult ENT Specialists:
Ear Conditions:
- Hearing loss – Age-related, noise-induced, or sudden hearing loss.
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) – Persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds.
- Ear infections (otitis media and externa) – Chronic or recurrent infections affecting the middle or outer ear.
- Earwax impaction – Removal of excessive earwax that affects hearing.
- Balance disorders (vertigo and dizziness) – Includes Meniere’s disease and benign positional vertigo (BPPV).
Nose and Sinus Conditions:
- Chronic sinus infections (sinusitis) – Inflammation of the sinus cavities leading to congestion and facial pain.
- Nasal congestion and breathing difficulties – Due to allergies, deviated septum, or nasal polyps.
- Nasal polyps and structural issues – Growths in the nasal cavity affecting airflow.
- Allergic rhinitis and seasonal allergies – Hay fever, dust, mold, or pet-related allergies.
Throat and Voice Disorders:
- Chronic sore throat and tonsillitis – Due to infections, postnasal drip, or acid reflux.
- Voice disorders and hoarseness – Including vocal cord nodules and laryngitis.
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) – Due to structural or neurological issues.
Sleep and Breathing Disorders:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – Repeated breathing interruptions during sleep.
- Snoring and upper airway resistance syndrome – Related to nasal blockages or throat tissue relaxation.
Head and Neck Conditions:
- Thyroid and parathyroid disorders – Involving nodules, enlargement, or hormone imbalances.
- Salivary gland infections or stones – Affecting saliva production and oral health.
- ENT-related headaches and facial pain – Due to sinus issues or structural abnormalities.
ENT specialists also perform surgical procedures such as tonsillectomies, sinus surgery, ear tube placement, and reconstructive procedures for nasal or airway obstructions.
When should I see an ENT doctor instead of a primary care physician?
While primary care doctors can treat minor ENT issues, you should see an ENT specialist if you experience any of the following:
Persistent or Recurrent Symptoms:
- Sinus infections that last longer than 10 days or frequently return despite treatment.
- Chronic nasal congestion that does not improve with over-the-counter medications.
- Persistent ear infections or hearing loss that does not resolve on its own.
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) that affects your daily life or hearing.
- Hoarseness lasting more than three weeks without improvement.
- Difficulty swallowing or frequent throat pain without an obvious cause.
Severe or Unusual Symptoms:
- Hearing loss that occurs suddenly or worsens over time.
- Severe dizziness or balance problems that interfere with daily activities.
- Snoring combined with daytime sleepiness or pauses in breathing while asleep.
- Lump in the throat, neck, or swollen glands that persist for more than two weeks.
Need for Specialized Treatment or Surgery:
- If you have nasal polyps, deviated septum, or enlarged tonsils, an ENT can determine whether surgery or advanced treatment is needed.
- If you are considering hearing aids or tinnitus therapy, an ENT can provide the best options for your specific hearing condition.
In general, if an ear, nose, or throat condition persists beyond a few weeks or significantly impacts your daily life, an ENT specialist should be consulted.
How is chronic sinusitis treated in adults?
Chronic sinusitis is a long-term inflammation of the sinuses, lasting 12 weeks or longer. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and its underlying causes.
Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Nasal corticosteroids – Reduce inflammation and swelling in the sinuses.
- Saline nasal irrigation – Flushes out allergens and excess mucus.
- Antibiotics (for bacterial infections) – Used only when an infection is confirmed.
- Allergy management – Antihistamines and immunotherapy (allergy shots) if allergies are a contributing factor.
- Oral steroids – Short courses may be prescribed to reduce severe inflammation.
Minimally Invasive and Surgical Options:
- Balloon Sinuplasty – A minimally invasive procedure that opens blocked sinus passages using a small balloon.
- Endoscopic Sinus Surgery – Removes nasal polyps, clears blockages, and improves sinus drainage.
- Deviated Septum Surgery (Septoplasty) – Corrects structural issues affecting breathing and sinus drainage.
At C/V ENT Surgical Group, we specialize in cutting-edge sinus treatments, offering the latest advancements to help patients in Los Angeles breathe more easily.
Can an ENT doctor help with sleep apnea?
Yes, ENT specialists play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Sleep apnea occurs when airways become blocked during sleep, leading to interrupted breathing, loud snoring, and fatigue.
Treatment Options:
- CPAP Therapy: The most common and effective treatment, using a device to keep airways open.
- Oral Appliance Therapy: Custom mouthguards that adjust the jaw to prevent airway obstruction.
- Surgical Solutions: ENT specialists may recommend procedures such as tonsillectomy, nasal surgery, or UPPP (Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty) to remove airway blockages.
At C/V ENT Surgical Group, we offer comprehensive sleep apnea evaluations and customized treatment plans for better sleep and overall health.
What are the treatment options for tinnitus and hearing loss?
Tinnitus and hearing loss can be caused by aging, noise exposure, infections, or underlying medical conditions. While tinnitus has no cure, there are effective management strategies available.
Hearing Loss Treatment:
- Hearing Aids – Improve hearing clarity and reduce tinnitus perception.
- Cochlear Implants – For severe hearing loss that does not benefit from traditional hearing aids.
- Medical Treatment – Addressing underlying infections, inflammation, or circulatory issues.
Tinnitus Management:
- Sound Therapy – Uses white noise or specialized sounds to reduce tinnitus awareness.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps patients cope with the emotional impact of tinnitus.
- Medications and Supplements – Certain drugs may help manage symptoms.
At C/V ENT Surgical Group, our Los Angeles hearing specialists provide personalized solutions to restore hearing and manage tinnitus effectively.
Is surgery always necessary for ENT conditions?
No, surgery is not always required for ENT disorders. Many conditions can be managed with medications, lifestyle changes, and non-invasive treatments.
When Surgery May Be Recommended:
- Chronic sinus infections that don’t respond to medication.
- Structural issues like a deviated septum or nasal polyps affecting breathing.
- Severe sleep apnea that does not improve with CPAP or oral devices.
- Tonsil problems causing recurrent infections or airway obstruction.
At C/V ENT Surgical Group, we always prioritize non-surgical treatments first and recommend surgery only when necessary for long-term relief.
At C/V ENT Surgical Group, our Los Angeles ENT specialists are committed to providing the best possible care for adult ENT conditions. Whether you need treatment for sinus infections, hearing loss, sleep apnea, or voice disorders, we offer the latest solutions to help you feel your best.
Schedule an appointment today to receive expert ENT care tailored to your needs!
Comprehensive Adult ENT Care at C/V ENT Surgical Group
At C/V ENT Surgical Group, we provide expert diagnosis and cutting-edge treatments for sinus infections, hearing loss, sleep apnea, allergies, voice disorders, and more. Our Los Angeles ENT specialists use the latest techniques to help patients breathe easier, hear better, and live healthier lives.
If you’re experiencing ear, nose, or throat issues, schedule a consultation with our team today for personalized, effective care.
We look forward to helping you achieve better ENT health and overall well-being!