What an ENT specialist does
An ENT specialist (otolaryngologist) is a doctor who treats conditions of the ear, nose and throat, along with related structures of the head and neck. Training is MBBS followed by an MS or DNB in Otorhinolaryngology, with optional sub-specialisation in ear surgery, rhinology, head and neck surgery or paediatric ENT. ENT doctors handle both medical treatment and surgery.
These organs affect hearing, balance, smell, taste, breathing, swallowing and speech, so problems can seriously impact quality of life. Air pollution, frequent colds and allergies make ENT complaints among the most common in outpatient clinics across India.
Common problems treated
- Ear: earache, ear discharge, wax blockage, hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing) and vertigo.
- Nose: blocked nose, sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, nosebleeds, deviated septum and nasal polyps.
- Throat: sore throat, recurrent tonsillitis, hoarseness or voice change, difficulty swallowing and snoring or sleep apnoea.
- Head and neck: neck lumps, thyroid swellings and tumours of the mouth, throat and voice box.
When to see an ENT specialist
Consult a specialist for an earache that lasts more than two days, ear discharge, sudden or progressive hearing loss, a blocked nose or sinus symptoms for more than ten days, repeated sore throats, hoarseness lasting more than three weeks, a lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing, or heavy snoring with daytime sleepiness. Sudden hearing loss is an emergency: early treatment can improve the chance of recovery. Nosebleeds that do not stop after 20 minutes of pressure, or breathing difficulty, need urgent care.
Tests and treatment
Many conditions are diagnosed with examination using an otoscope, nasal endoscope or laryngoscope, in the clinic. Other tests include audiometry (hearing test), tympanometry, a CT scan of the sinuses, allergy tests, sleep studies and biopsy where needed. Treatments include ear cleaning, medicines, nasal sprays, allergy management, hearing aids, and surgeries such as tonsillectomy, septoplasty, sinus surgery, grommet insertion and tympanoplasty. A CBC, thyroid profile and allergy panel may be advised in some cases.
Cost of consultation
ENT consultation fees commonly range from about ₹400 to ₹1,200 and may vary by city. Surgery costs vary widely by procedure, hospital and room category; request an itemised estimate and check insurance coverage.
How to choose
- Verify MS/DNB (ENT) qualification and registration.
- Choose experience with your type of problem, such as paediatric ENT for children or ear surgery for hearing disease.
- Ask about non-surgical options before agreeing to surgery, particularly for tonsils and sinuses.
Good ear, nose and throat care
Do not insert cotton buds, hairpins or oil into your ears, protect ears from loud noise, treat allergies, avoid smoking and tobacco, gargle with warm salt water for a sore throat, and finish prescribed antibiotics only if advised. Online consultation helps with follow-ups and report review, while sudden hearing loss or breathing difficulty needs in-person care. Compare ENT specialists and book on Lab Dekho.
Trusted References
This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.