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What is an Otolaryngologist?

October 15th, 2015 | 1 min. read

By Houston ENT & Allergy

When people are searching for an ENT clinic, they might be thrown by a listing that shows the word "otolaryngologist." While it's much simpler to call them ENT doctors, otolaryngologists can treat more than just the ears, nose, and throat. At Houston ENT & Allergy, our staff can diagnose and treat conditions that affect those areas, but are also skilled in the related structures of and disorders that affect the head and neck.

With millions of people suffering from hearing loss, chronic sinusitis, voice box issues, and other ailments, it's important for an otolaryngologist to be trained for any circumstance. The American Academy of Otolaryngology (AAO) lists seven areas of expertise, which are:

  • Allergy Treatment
  • Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
  • Head and Neck
  • Laryngology
  • Otology/Neurology
  • Pediatric Otolaryngology
  • Rhinology

Otolaryngologists complete up to 15 years of college and post-graduate training, including four years of college, four years of medical school, and at least five years of specialty training. At Houston ENT & Allergy, we have doctors that are trained in every area of expertise as defined by the AAO, and can recommend the necessary treatment when you visit us.

While a general practitioner of medicine can possibly diagnose an ear, nose, or throat issue, only an otolaryngologist can see the specific cause behind your breathing, swallowing, speaking, or hearing problem. At our Southwest Houston location, as well as all of our other area offices, we can pair you with the right ENT doctor, and you'll know that you're in capable hands. If you need ENT treatment, please don't hesitate to contact us.