Our ear, nose, and throat (ENT) health often goes unnoticed until an issue arises, impacting our ability to perform even the simplest daily tasks. From struggling to hear to experiencing discomfort in swallowing, ENT problems can be more than a minor inconvenience—they can be life-disrupting. In the Philippines, these concerns are especially prevalent, making it essential to raise awareness about ENT health.
To better understand the significance of these issues and their impact on the Filipino population, we had the privilege of sitting down with Dr. Mark Edilberto Lopez, an ENT specialist at Doctor Anywhere. Dr. Lopez shared invaluable insights into the most common ENT issues, their symptoms, and the importance of seeking early medical intervention.
Common ENT Issues in the Philippines
Dr. Mark gave us a detailed overview of the Top 10 most common ENT conditions seen in outpatient departments for 2024, which include:
Impacted Cerumen
Acute Otitis Externa
Acute Otitis Media
Otomycosis
Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media
Multinodular Non-Toxic Goiter
Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disease
Reactive Lymphadenitis/TB Adenitis
Chronic Hypertrophic Tonsils/Acute Tonsillopharyngitis
“These cases range from acute to chronic conditions, managed through both medical treatments and surgical operations. The treatment plan varies based on the patient’s symptoms, severity, and underlying conditions,” Dr. Mark explained.
Many of these issues may sound unfamiliar, but they are more common than you might think. Let’s break down some of these conditions and the symptoms associated with them, to help you better recognize when it’s time to seek medical care.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Knowing when to visit a doctor can be tricky, especially when symptoms start subtly. Dr. Mark provided us with a detailed list of symptoms for the most common ENT disorders, which can serve as a guide for anyone who might be experiencing discomfort.
1. Ear Disorders
Conditions like Impacted Cerumen (earwax build-up), Acute Otitis Externa, Acute Otitis Media, and Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media often present with similar symptoms. According to Dr. Mark, “Patients usually experience ear pain, itchiness, a sense of fullness, dizziness, headache, fever, and hearing loss in the affected ear. In more severe cases, there may be fluid drainage from the ear.”
For parents, it’s essential to pay attention to infants’ behavior, as they may not be able to express their discomfort. “Infants with ear disorders may be irritable, cry continuously, or have a decreased appetite,” Dr. Mark added.
2. Rhinopharyngeal Disorders
The nose and throat are equally prone to infections and other conditions, such as Chronic Rhinosinusitis, Reactive Lymphadenitis/TB Adenitis, and Chronic Hypertrophic Tonsils. Dr. Mark emphasized that these disorders often manifest with blocked or runny noses, sore throats, and difficulty swallowing.
Other common symptoms include:
Hoarseness or voice changes
Facial tenderness
Decreased sense of smell
Sneezing
Red, watery eyes
Fever or headaches
For anyone experiencing these symptoms, it’s critical not to dismiss them as just another cold or flu. “A persistent or recurring issue might indicate a chronic condition that requires medical attention,” Dr. Mark warned.
3. Head and Neck Disorders
Conditions affecting the head and neck, such as Multinodular Non-Toxic Goiter, often present with more alarming symptoms. These include:
Lumps in the neck, jaw, or mouth
Mouth ulcers that don’t heal
Difficulty swallowing or moving the jaw
Speech problems
Ear pain or hearing loss
Trouble breathing
Unexplained weight loss
Dr. Mark explained, “If you notice any of these signs, particularly lumps or unexplained weight loss, it’s crucial to consult a specialist immediately.”
4. Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disease
A lesser-known but increasingly common disorder, Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disease (LPRD), occurs when stomach acid travels up into the throat, causing a variety of symptoms. These include:
Hoarseness or persistent throat clearing
Difficulty swallowing
A sensation of a lump in the throat
Chronic cough
Heartburn or chest pain
“Patients often come to us after experiencing symptoms for months or even years,” Dr. Mark shared. “It’s important to seek treatment early to avoid complications.”
The Importance of Early Intervention
Many people are inclined to ignore or delay treatment for ENT issues, hoping that the symptoms will resolve on their own. Unfortunately, this can lead to complications that are harder to treat down the road. Dr. Mark underscored the importance of seeking early medical care for ENT problems, listing several reasons why timely intervention is crucial:
1. Minimizing Morbidity and Mortality
“The face and other parts of the head and neck are close to vital organs such as the brain, orbits, and major blood vessels. A delay in treating infections can lead to severe complications, including intracranial or airway issues, which can be life-threatening.”
2. Cost-Effectiveness
Early detection often leads to more straightforward, less costly treatment. “By catching diseases early, we can prevent them from developing into chronic conditions that require more complex and expensive interventions,” Dr. Mark said.
3. Improved Quality of Life
“ENT disorders can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, affecting daily activities, work performance, and social interactions,” Dr. Mark emphasized. Early treatment can restore normal function and prevent long-term consequences like hearing loss or speech impairment.
4. Preventing the Spread of Infection
ENT issues are not just personal health concerns; they can also affect those around us. “Infections like tonsillitis and sinusitis can spread easily within families or communities if left untreated,” Dr. Mark warned.
Why You Shouldn't Wait
For many, ENT issues may not seem like urgent health concerns. However, as Dr. Mark highlighted, they can have serious consequences if left unchecked. From minor conditions like earwax buildup to more severe disorders like goiter or LPRD, seeking early treatment can make all the difference in avoiding complications and improving outcomes.
“ENT specialists are trained to identify and treat a wide range of problems, from minor cases to more serious issues that require surgery,” Dr. Mark explained. “We look for early signs and can provide personalized care that addresses each patient’s unique needs.”
It’s not just about addressing current symptoms—ENT doctors can also provide guidance on preventive care, helping patients take steps to avoid future problems. “The earlier a problem is identified, the easier it is to address, and the better the outcome will be,” Dr. Mark emphasized.
Prioritizing Your ENT Health
ENT health plays an essential role in your overall well-being. From hearing and breathing to swallowing and speaking, these vital functions can be disrupted by even minor conditions. The key to optimal ENT health is awareness, early recognition of symptoms, and seeking timely medical intervention.
At Doctor Anywhere, we are committed to making specialized care accessible to everyone. With experts like Dr. Mark Edilberto Lopez on our team, you can trust that your ENT health is in capable hands. Use the Doctor Anywhere app to begin your video consultations, and conveniently purchase medications through the app after your consultation and have them delivered to your doorstep. Download the free Doctor Anywhere app now to access these services.
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Use the Doctor Anywhere app to begin your video consultations, and conveniently purchase medications through the app after your consultation and have them delivered to your doorstep. Download the free Doctor Anywhere app now to access these services.
Make the most out of your doctor appointments! Here are a few reminders to keep in mind before your video consultations: https://dranywhr.ph/consultation-reminders
One-time use per account for the first video consultation. Valid for new Doctor Anywhere users who haven’t had a video consultation yet. *Promo runs from Jan. 1, 2025 - Dec. 31, 2025. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-192282 Series of 2024. ^Promo runs from May 1, 2024 - Apr. 30, 2025. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-192282 Series of 2024.
Sources:
1. Dr. Lopez, Mark Edilberto. Interviewed on 20 October 2024
2. Raj A, Wadhwa V, Jain A. Epidemiological Profile of ENT Emergencies: Our Experience. Indian J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2019 Oct;71(Suppl 1):301-304. doi: 10.1007/s12070-018-1284-9. Epub 2018 Feb 19. PMID: 31741976; PMCID: PMC6848306.
3. Witsell, D. L., Dolor, R. J., Bolte, J. M., & Stinnett, S. S. (2001). Exploring Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Diseases of the Ear, Nose, and Throat: A Multicenter Observational Study. Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, 125(4), 288–298. doi:10.1067/mhn.2001.118693
10.1067/mhn.2001.118693
4. Setyawati, R., Astuti, A., Utami, P, T., Adiwijaya, S., Hasyim, M, D. (2024). The Importance of Early Detection in Disease Management. Journal Neosantara Hybrid Learning, 2(1), 51-63. https://doi.org/10.55849/health.v2i1.692
5. Velasco KJS, Fullante PB, Calaquian CME. Patient Profiles and Cost of Otolaryngologic Surgeries in an LMIC Country. Acta Med Philipp. 2024 Jun 14;58(10):65-73. doi: 10.47895/amp.vi0.7540. PMID: 38939417; PMCID: PMC11199366.
6. Campagnolo AM, Priston J, Thoen RH, Medeiros T, Assunção AR. Laryngopharyngeal reflux: diagnosis, treatment, and latest research. Int Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2014 Apr;18(2):184-91. doi: 10.1055/s-0033-1352504. Epub 2013 Nov 5. PMID: 25992088; PMCID: PMC4297018.
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