If you’ve ever dealt with stubborn sinus infections, persistent ear pain, or unexplained throat discomfort, you may have been advised to see an ENT specialist. But what is an ENT specialist exactly?
An ENT specialist (also known as an otolaryngologist) is a physician trained to diagnose and treat conditions of the ear, nose, and throat, as well as related structures of the head and neck. These specialists play a crucial role in managing chronic sinusitis, sleep disorders, voice issues, allergies, and even performing delicate surgical procedures.
At Kaplan Sinus Relief, our focus is on helping people breathe better, sleep better, and live more comfortably by addressing the root causes of their sinus and breathing problems. If you’re experiencing chronic congestion, facial pain, or recurring sinus infections, our clinic offers advanced, minimally invasive solutions — like balloon sinuplasty — to help you find lasting relief.
What does an ENT specialist do?
An ENT specialist is trained to manage a wide variety of issues involving the ear, nose, throat, sinuses, head, and neck. Their scope of practice includes everything from diagnosing infections and managing chronic conditions to performing surgical interventions when needed.
Here’s a breakdown of the major anatomical areas and what ENT specialists treat:
| Ears | Nose and sinuses |
| ENTs diagnose and treat conditions like: Chronic ear infections Hearing loss Balance disorders (like vertigo) Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) Eustachian tube dysfunction | This is one of the most common areas of focus. ENT specialists manage: Chronic sinusitis and nasal infections Allergies and nasal polyps Deviated septum and structural issues Nasal obstructions affecting breathing Loss of smell (anosmia) |
| Throat and voice | Head and neck |
| ENTs help with: Sore throats and tonsillitis Hoarseness and voice disorders Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) Laryngitis | ENTs also address: Enlarged lymph nodes Thyroid conditions Salivary gland infections Facial trauma Head and neck tumors |
ENTs often work closely with audiologists, allergists, and other specialists to offer holistic care. At Kaplan Sinus Relief, our emphasis is on sinus-related issues, which often fall into a gray area; some patients don’t realize their recurring headaches or post-nasal drip are tied to a chronic sinus condition that an ENT can effectively treat.
Do ENT doctors do surgery?
Yes, ENT specialists are trained surgeons and can perform a wide range of procedures depending on your condition. Common surgeries an ENT can perform include:
- Balloon sinuplasty (a less invasive alternative to traditional sinus surgery)
- Tonsillectomy (removal of tonsils)
- Septoplasty (correction of a deviated septum)
- Endoscopic sinus surgery
- Ear tube placement
- Removal of nasal polyps
At Kaplan Sinus Relief, Dr. Michael Kaplan is nationally recognized for his expertise in balloon sinuplasty, a procedure designed to offer sinus relief without the discomfort or downtime of traditional surgery. For patients struggling with sinus infections and congestion that don’t respond to medication, balloon sinuplasty can be a game-changer.
When should you see an ENT specialist?
While your primary care provider can treat minor ear, nose, or throat infections, some symptoms and conditions call for a specialist’s care. You should consider seeing an ENT if you experience any of the following:
- Chronic or recurrent sinus infections
- Persistent nasal congestion or post-nasal drip
- Facial pain or pressure around your eyes, cheeks, or forehead
- Difficulty breathing through your nose
- Frequent ear infections or hearing changes
- Constant sore throat, hoarseness, or voice loss
- Trouble swallowing
- Suspected sleep apnea or loud snoring
Can an ENT tell if you have a sinus infection?
Yes. One of the most common reasons people visit ENTs is for chronic or recurring sinus infections, especially when over-the-counter medications or antibiotics aren’t effective. ENT specialists can determine whether you’re dealing with:
- Acute sinusitis (short-term)
- Chronic sinusitis (lasting more than 12 weeks)
- Allergic rhinitis
- Nasal polyps or structural blockages
At Kaplan Sinus Relief, we use advanced diagnostic tools, including nasal endoscopy and CT scans, to get a clear view of your sinus anatomy and determine the real cause of your discomfort. Many patients come in believing they just have a cold or allergy flare-up, only to discover they have a correctable structural problem or chronic inflammation that’s gone untreated for years.
Experience the Kaplan Sinus Relief difference
Led by Dr. Michael Kaplan, our Houston-based clinic specializes in diagnosing and treating chronic sinus conditions using the latest techniques and technology. One of the most impactful treatments we offer is balloon sinuplasty, a minimally invasive procedure designed to open up blocked sinuses and restore normal drainage without cutting or removing tissue.
What is balloon sinuplasty?
After mentioning it multiple times, you might be wondering what is balloon sinuplasty? Balloon sinuplasty works by inserting a small balloon catheter into the blocked sinus passage and then inflating it to gently restructure and open the sinus walls. Once the passage is widened, the balloon is removed, allowing for proper sinus drainage.
Benefits of balloon sinuplasty include:
- Quick procedure (often under an hour)
- Can be done in-office
- Minimal discomfort
- No cutting or removal of tissue
- Fast recovery time (most return to normal activity in 1–2 days)
- Long-term symptom relief
This procedure is ideal for patients with chronic sinusitis who want to avoid the risks and recovery time associated with traditional sinus surgery. Dr. Kaplan has performed thousands of these procedures and is known nationwide for his skill in helping patients breathe freely again.
In need of a solution to your sinus problems? Call Kaplan Sinus Relief today.
If you’ve been living with nasal congestion, facial pressure, or recurring sinus infections, you don’t have to suffer in silence or rely solely on medications. What is an ENT specialist, if not a highly trained medical professional who can diagnose the root cause of your symptoms and recommend treatments that work — not just temporary relief.
At Kaplan Sinus Relief, we take a patient-first approach. From your first consultation to any necessary procedures like balloon sinuplasty, our mission is to help you breathe easier, feel better, and reclaim your quality of life.
Don’t wait for your symptoms to get worse. Schedule an appointment and take the first step toward relief today.
More Helpful Articles by Kaplan Sinus Relief:
- Understanding the Link Between GERD and Sinusitis
- How to Relieve a Swollen Ear Canal
- Does Weather Affect Sinuses?
- How Augmented Reality Improves Sinus Balloon Treatment Outcomes
- Types of Nasal Obstructions: Why They Happen and How to Treat Them