Ear, nose and throat symptoms
When we talk about ear, nose and throat symptoms, we're referring to a range of conditions that affect these three important parts of our body. These areas are closely linked, and problems in one area can often affect the others. Below you'll find an in-depth look at the most common symptoms, their causes and how they can be treated.


Ear pain and hearing loss
Ear pain can be caused by a number of factors, including ear infections, wax plugs or even pressure changes. Hearing loss can also be a symptom of these conditions or can be caused by aging or damage to the ear. If you experience persistent ear pain or hearing loss, it's important to consult a doctor to determine the cause and get the right treatment.
Nasal congestion and runny nose
A stuffy or runny nose can be annoying, but it's often a sign of an underlying condition such as a cold, allergies or sinusitis. Persistent symptoms, especially in combination with a headache or fever, should be taken seriously and a doctor should be consulted.
Throat pain and difficulty swallowing
Throat pain can be caused by an infection, such as strep throat, or can be the result of straining, such as shouting or singing. Difficulty swallowing can be caused by infections, swelling or other conditions in the throat. Both persistent throat pain and difficulty swallowing should be examined by a doctor.
Dizziness and balance issues
As our inner ear plays a key role in our balance, problems here can lead to dizziness or balance issues. Causes can range from infections to injuries, and it's important to get a proper diagnosis to avoid further complications.
Tinnitus or ringing in the ears
Tinnitus refers to a constant ringing or buzzing in the ears. It can be caused by a number of factors, including damage to the ear, hearing loss or even certain medications. If you experience tinnitus, it's important to talk to a doctor about possible treatments.
Swelling or lumps in the throat
Swelling or lumps in the throat can be caused by infections, inflammation or in rare cases, tumors. Any unexplained swelling, lump or pain in the throat should be examined by a doctor immediately.
Frequently asked questions
This can be caused by several reasons, including allergies, sinusitis or nasal polyps. If the problem is persistent, you should consult a doctor to identify the exact cause.
Yes, sometimes problems with your teeth or jaw can lead to ear pain. Infections in a tooth can also spread to the ear. If you experience ear pain along with dental problems, you should consult both your dentist and your doctor.
While short-term hoarseness is often caused by congestion or a mild infection, persistent hoarseness lasting more than a week should be checked by a doctor as it could be a sign of a more serious condition.
Ringing in the ears, also known as tinnitus, can be caused by many factors, including hearing loss, ear damage, certain medications or even high blood pressure. If you experience persistent tinnitus, you should seek medical attention.