Season 5: Episode 7 Show Notes
Being referred to a specialist as a patient can be daunting. The idea that your condition extends beyond a primary care visit may cause confusion, but being educated on these providers may ease the situation.
Hosts Brian Maschino and Tatiyana Giddings met with Dr. Peter Wickwire, ENT surgeon, to discuss his specialty, why a patient may be referred to him, and the importance of the specialty itself.
What does an ENT surgeon do?
An ENT surgeon focuses on conditions that affect the ears, nose, and throat. These subspecialty surgeons are formally known as “otorhinolaryngologists.”
Oto (Ear) – Hearing loss, ear infections, fluid in the ear
Rhino (Nasal) – Sinus surgery, chronic sinus issues, tumors
Laryngology (Voice) – speech obstruction, breathing issues, tumors
When would you be referred to an ENT?
Usually, a referral to the ENT begins with a primary care visit. Patients may visit their PCP for a common cold, bacterial infections, or general sinus pain. A PCP may refer a patient to an ENT when:
- The existing condition worsens
- The condition is not resolved after initial treatment
- The condition needs specialized medication or attention
- The patient may be a candidate for a surgery
- The PCP suspects the patient will benefit from extended care
What conditions do ENTs treat?
An ENT specialist treats patients who may be suffering from:
- Prolonged hearing loss
- Chronic ear infections
- Trouble swallowing or speaking
- Issues with the sinus tract
- Throat cancer
- Laryngitis
What can I expect when seeing an ENT?
If you are on track to seeing an ENT, you may have existing symptoms disrupting your life. It is essential to understand that though these symptoms may be comorbid, it does not mean that each system is the issue. For example, someone with a cold may inclusively experience symptoms in the ears, nose, and throat. However, this patient may only need treatment for the throat to clear the condition. In turn, the ears and nose disruption is solved.
Dr. Wickwire notes that patients can expect “focused questions,” which are meant to help them pinpoint their symptoms better. Patients undergo directed questioning so that the specialist can better assess the system that has been affected.
Once pinpointed, patients can expect a care plan that may include medication, testing, examinations, and, in some cases, surgery.
The JPS Podcast Credits
The JPS Podcast is hosted by: Brian Maschino and Tatiyana Giddings
Executive Producer: Jessica Virnoche
Producers: Brian Maschino, Tatiyana Giddings, and Gaspar Hinojosa
Audio Mixing and Recording: Gaspar Hinojosa
Editing: Brian Maschino