Ear, nose and throat (ENT) care

Problems affecting your ears, nose or throat can be uncomfortable and, in some cases, disruptive to daily life. Whether you’re experiencing difficulty hearing, ongoing sinus issues, hoarseness (of the voice) or balance problems, a specialist assessment can help identify the cause and guide appropriate care for you.

At Affidea, our ENT service offers thorough investigation and personalised treatment to ease symptoms and promote lasting ear, nose and throat health.

Overview: What is ENT care?

ENT, or ear, nose and throat care, addresses conditions that affect hearing, breathing, balance, voice and swallowing.

Because the ear, nose and throat are closely linked, symptoms in one area can sometimes relate to another. For example, sinus problems may affect breathing, while inner ear issues can impact balance.

Some ENT conditions develop gradually, such as hearing changes or nasal blockages. Others may appear suddenly, including infections or episodes of vertigo (a feeling of moving or spinning while at rest). A detailed assessment helps determine the cause and identify the best way to manage symptoms.

At Affidea, ENT care combines clinical assessment with access to diagnostic tools and minor procedures when needed. This integrated approach ensures a more complete understanding of your condition and the most suitable plan for your health.

What to expect during your ENT appointment

Your ENT consultation will focus on your symptoms and how they are impacting you day to day. This may include discussions about changes in hearing, breathing, balance or throat comfort, as well as how long these issues have been present.

Examination of the ears, nose and throat is often carried out using specialised equipment that allows your clinician to see these areas in detail. This helps identify signs of inflammation, blockage or structural changes that may be causing your symptoms.

In some cases, further tests may be recommended during the same visit. For example, a nasendoscopy may be used to examine the nasal passages and throat, or balance testing may be carried out if dizziness or vertigo are a concern. Audiology tests are carried out to check hearing and middle ear pressures.

Once the cause of your symptoms is clear, your specialist will talk through the findings and outline the options available. Depending on your needs, this may include monitoring, medical treatment or a minor procedure.

ENT treatments and services we offer

Affidea’s ENT service provides care for ear, nose and throat conditions, bringing together comprehensive assessment with diagnostic procedures and targeted treatments.

Earwax removal

Excess earwax can affect hearing and cause discomfort. Safe removal techniques can help restore hearing and relieve symptoms.

Vent (grommet) insertion

Vent insertion involves placing a small tube into the eardrum to allow air circulation and fluid drainage. This is often used to manage persistent middle ear problems.

Nasendoscopy

Nasendoscopy uses a thin, flexible camera to examine the nasal passages and throat. This allows the specialist to see areas that aren’t visible during a standard examination.

Vertigo and balance assessment

Specialist testing can help identify causes of dizziness or balance problems. These assessments focus on inner ear function and how it may be affecting stability.

General ENT care

Audiology to assess hearing and recommendations for amplification if necessary.

Assessment and management of conditions affecting hearing, sinus health, throat symptoms and related concerns.

When to see an ENT specialist

You may benefit from an ENT consultation if you are experiencing persistent symptoms that are difficult to manage.

Reasons to seek specialist support may include:

• Hearing changes or a feeling of blocked ears

• Ongoing sinus congestion or nasal blockage

• Dizziness, vertigo or balance problems

• Throat discomfort, hoarseness or difficulty swallowing

• Recurring ear, nose or throat infections

Early assessment can help pinpoint the cause of symptoms and guide appropriate care. In many cases, this can prevent symptoms from becoming more persistent or disruptive.

If you’re unsure whether ENT care is appropriate for you, your GP can help guide you. Our ENT team is also available to provide specialist assessment and advice.