What is an ENT?
An ENT in a physician who specializes in diagnosing & treating conditions associated with the ears, nose, and throat. Sometimes these physicians are also referred to as otolaryngologists. Common conditions these doctors treat include: ear infections, voice difficulties, swallowing trouble, allergies, and issues with tonsils and adenoids.
When would a Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) refer you to an ENT?
If a structural difference may be the causal factor for a clients speech & language disorder then a referral to an ENT is essential before an SLP can provide effective treatment.
Possible referral reasons:
- Hypernasality: when there is too much nasal airflow (sounds like one is talking through their nose)
- Hyponasality: when there is a lack of nasal airflow (sounds like one’s nose is stuffy)
- Chronic Ear Infections
- Snoring
- Enlarged or suspected to be large tonsils/adenoids
- Atypical voice quality