ENT (ear, nose, and throat) endoscopy is a low-risk procedure in which specialists use a rigid or flexible telescope to examine the upper airway, sinuses, and throat. It is a valuable diagnostic tool for many conditions that affect breathing, speech, hearing, or quality of life.
In this guide, we’ll explore some common conditions diagnosed with ENT endoscopy, their symptoms, causes, and available treatment options.
Common Conditions Diagnosed with ENT Endoscopy: A Comprehensive Guide
1. Chronic Sinusitis and Nasal Polyps
Chronic sinusitis is persistent inflammation of the sinuses for over 12 weeks. The symptoms include nasal congestion, facial pressure, postnasal drip, and shortness of breath. ENT endoscopy can reveal inflamed sinus mucosa, mucus, or nasal polyps—benign tumors that can cause obstructions and lead to chronic sinus.
Treatment Options:
- Nasal corticosteroids
- Saline nasal irrigation
- Antibiotics (if bacterial infection is present)
- Endoscopic sinus surgery for severe cases
![Common Conditions Diagnosed with ENT endoscopy]()
2. Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR) and GERD-Related Issues
LPR, or “silent reflux,” occurs when stomach acid flows up the esophagus and into the throat. Symptoms include chronic cough, hoarseness, throat clearing, and lump-in-throat. LPR does not always cause heartburn, unlike GERD, making diagnosis tricky without an endoscopic test.
Treatment Options:
- Dietary and lifestyle changes (avoiding acidic foods, not eating before bed)
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
- H2 blockers
3. Vocal Cord Disorders
ENT endoscopy is vital in the diagnosis of vocal cord nodules, polyps, cysts, and paralysis. They can cause voice change, hoarseness, and even respiratory distress. Singers, teachers, and public speakers are particularly susceptible to vocal abuse.
Treatment Options:
- Voice therapy
- Rest and hydration
- Surgery in severe cases
4. Nasal Obstructions and Deviated Septum
A deviated septum occurs when the cartilage between the nostrils is displaced, causing breathing and snoring problems. ENT endoscopy can quantify the extent of deviation and detect other blockages, such as big turbinates or foreign objects.
Treatment Options:
- Nasal decongestants or antihistamines
- Septoplasty (surgical correction of the septum)
- Turbinate reduction surgery
5. Chronic Tonsillitis and Throat Infections
Frequent sore throats, difficulty swallowing, and swollen tonsils may indicate chronic tonsillitis. An ENT endoscopy helps determine if the tonsils harbor persistent infection or if another underlying issue, like a peritonsillar abscess, is present.
Treatment Options:
- Antibiotics
- Tonsillectomy (surgical removal of tonsils) for recurrent cases
6. Sleep Apnea and Airway Abnormalities
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs when airway tissues collapse during sleep, leading to interrupted breathing. ENT endoscopy plays a key role in identifying structural causes, such as an enlarged tongue base, soft palate issues, or nasal blockages.
Treatment Options:
- Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy
- Oral appliances
- Surgical interventions for severe cases
7. Ear Infections and Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
Recurrent ear infections, persistent ear pain, or a feeling of fullness in the ears may be linked to Eustachian tube dysfunction. ENT endoscopy allows visualization of the ear canal, eardrum, and Eustachian tube opening, helping diagnose blockages or inflammation.
Treatment Options:
- Nasal decongestants or antihistamines
- Myringotomy (ear tube insertion)
- Balloon dilation of the Eustachian tube
8. Head and Neck Tumors
ENT endoscopy is also employed to identify abnormal growths or tumors in the throat, larynx, or nasal tract. Hoarseness that persists, swallowing difficulty, and unexplained weight loss may be a sign of a serious condition that would necessitate further examination, such as a biopsy.
Treatment Options:
- Surgical removal
- Radiation or chemotherapy
- Targeted therapies based on tumor type
