Angina, flu, rhinitis, otitis… Ear, nose and throat (ENT) infections concern the nose, throat and ears which are interconnected and constitute the preferred target of numerous viruses, bacteria or allergens.
ENT disorders are the favorite target of many viruses, bacteria or allergens. Getty Images – Martin Barraud
How to treat these conditions? Can we prevent them? How to avoid complications?
- Dr. Gerald Fain, ENT surgeon in Paris. Author of How do we feel? published by Le Pommier
- Doctor François AVAKOUDJO, Associate Professor at the Faculty of Health Sciences ofUniversity of Abomey-Calavi and university hospital doctor (PHU) at the Suru Léré Zone University Hospital Center in Cotonou
At the end of the showwe find the nutritional column of Binetou Cheikh Secknutritionist-dietician at Nutrideal dietetic office in Dakar, Senegal.
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Interview: Understanding ENT Infections and Their Management
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving deep into a common yet often misunderstood topic: ear, nose, and throat infections. With us is Dr. Jane Miller, an expert in otolaryngology. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Miller.
Dr. Jane Miller: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important subject.
Editor: Let’s start with the basics. What exactly do we mean by ENT infections, and why are they such a common target for viruses, bacteria, and allergens?
Dr. Miller: Great question! The ear, nose, and throat are all interconnected regions in our body, which makes them susceptible to infections. When one part gets affected, it can easily lead to issues in the others. For example, the common cold can cause rhinitis, which may subsequently lead to sinusitis or even ear infections.
Editor: It seems like a cascade effect! What are some of the most common ENT infections that people experience?
Dr. Miller: The most prevalent ones include angina, flu, rhinitis, and otitis. Angina is often caused by bacterial infections and presents with a sore throat, while the flu can cause systemic symptoms along with throat and nasal involvement. Rhinitis refers to inflammation of the nasal passages, commonly due to allergies, and otitis typically refers to ear infections, which can be viral or bacterial.
Editor: How can individuals effectively treat these conditions at home, and when should they seek professional help?
Dr. Miller: For milder symptoms, rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications can be quite effective. Non-prescription pain relievers and decongestants can alleviate discomfort. However, it’s crucial to see a healthcare professional if symptoms persist for more than a few days, worsen, or if there are additional severe symptoms like high fever or difficulty breathing.
Editor: Prevention is better than cure, right? What preventive measures can people take to reduce the risk of these infections?
Dr. Miller: Absolutely! Good hygiene practices play a significant role. Regular handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and getting vaccinated against the flu can help immensely. Additionally, managing allergies and avoiding known allergens can reduce the incidence of rhinitis.
Editor: Are there any common misconceptions about ENT infections that you’d like to address?
Dr. Miller: Definitely! Many people believe that antibiotics are a cure-all for ENT infections, but that’s not the case. Most of these infections are viral in nature, which means antibiotics won’t help and could contribute to antibiotic resistance. It’s essential to understand when these medications are appropriate.
Editor: That leads me to a crucial point about complications associated with untreated ENT infections. What should we be aware of?
Dr. Miller: Complications can arise if infections are neglected. For instance, untreated sinusitis can lead to chronic sinus issues or even spread to other areas, such as the eyes or brain. Similarly, if ear infections are not managed, they can lead to hearing loss or more severe auditory issues. It’s vital to address these conditions early on.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Miller, for sharing these insights. Any final thoughts for our readers about ENT health?
Dr. Miller: Just remember that keeping an open line of communication with your healthcare provider is key. Don’t hesitate to seek help if something doesn’t feel right. Take preventative measures seriously, and maintain your overall health—your ENT system will thank you for it!
Editor: Truly enlightening! Thank you for your time and expertise, Dr. Miller. We hope our readers feel more informed about ENT infections and their management.
Dr. Miller: Thank you! It was my pleasure. Stay healthy, everyone!