A Complete Guide to ENT Common Conditions and Their Symptoms

ENT conditions commonly affect people of all ages and often begin with simple symptoms such as ear pain, nasal congestion, or a sore throat. Because the ear, nose and throat are so closely connected, a problem in one area can quickly have an effect on breathing, balance, hearing or sleep.

While some issues are mild and resolve on their own, others can persist and benefit from early specialist assessment. Understanding the most common ENT problems, their causes, and when to seek help can make it easier to recognise symptoms early and access the right treatment. We spoke to Mr Cheka Spencer, Consultant ENT Surgeon, about the most common ENT problems. Mr Spencer has extensive experience in a wide variety of ENT conditions and surgical procedures with areas of expertise in blocked noses, septoplasty, rhinoplasty (nose job), sinusitis, endoscopic sinus surgery and snoirng.

How the Ear, Nose and Throat Work Together

The ear, nose and throat are separate structures, but they are part of the same system and influence each other in several ways. The nose filters, conditions and warms the air we breathe, the throat helps with swallowing, speaking and breathing, and the ears are responsible for both hearing and balance. When one part of this system becomes irritated or infected, other symptoms can quickly follow.

A simple overview of function helps explain why ENT conditions are so widespread:

The Ear

The ear is made up of three main sections, the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. The outer ear and ear canal collect sound waves, the middle ear transmits those sounds through tiny bones to the inner ear, and the inner ear processes these sound waves whilst also analysing balance. When inflammation, infection, or fluid builds up in any part of the ear, it can lead to pain, pressure, reduced hearing, or dizziness.

The Nose

The nose filters the air we breathe and protects the body from dust, allergens, and infection. It is also connected to a series of air-filled spaces called sinuses. When these sinuses become blocked or inflamed, it can cause pressure, headaches, congestion, and loss of smell.

The Throat

The throat transmits both food and air, and is responsible for swallowing, speech, and protection of the airway for breathing. Irritation or swelling in this area can cause discomfort when eating, hoarseness, repeated throat infections, or snoring and sleep-related breathing problems.

Common Ear Conditions

Ear-related ENT conditions range from simple wax build-up to more disruptive issues such as vertigo, long-term hearing loss or repeated infection. Many of these problems are especially common in children, but adults can also experience them due to age, illness, or changes in the surrounding environment.

Ear Infections

Ear infections are among the most common ENT problems, particularly in younger children, because the tubes that drain fluid from the middle ear (Eustachian tubes) can become blocked more easily. Infections often occur when bacteria or viruses travel from the nose or throat into the middle ear, causing a build-up of fluid behind the eardrum.

Symptoms may include:

• Ear pain or a feeling of pressure
• Temporary hearing loss
• Irritability in children
• Fever or general unwellness

Most mild ear infections settle with rest, pain relief, or decongestant sprays to help relieve pressure. In some cases, antibiotics may be recommended, particularly if symptoms persist.

Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is another extremely common ENT condition, and it can occur gradually over time or appear suddenly. Age-related hearing loss typically develops slowly, while other causes can include repeated infection, noise exposure, damage to the ear canal, or a blockage such as excess ear wax.

Many people do not notice the early stages of hearing loss because they instinctively begin turning up the TV volume or asking people to repeat themselves more often. An ENT specialist may suggest a hearing test to understand the exact cause and determine whether simple treatment, hearing protection, or further support would be helpful.

Tinnitus

Tinnitus describes hearing ringing, buzzing, or humming in the ear when no external sound is present. While it can be worrying, it is usually not a sign of something serious. Tinnitus is often linked to age-related hearing changes, exposure to loud noise, ear infections or a build-up of wax. For most people, symptoms improve once the underlying cause is treated.

Balance Problems and Vertigo (BPPV)

The inner ear does more than just process sound, it also helps control balance. When the inner ear becomes irritated or when tiny crystals shift out of place, it can cause a spinning sensation called vertigo. One of the most common types is Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), which occurs when certain head movements trigger sudden dizziness.

People often describe the sensation as if the room is spinning or tilting. Although it can feel alarming, BPPV is treatable through simple repositioning techniques carried out by a specialist. In many cases, improvement is quick and long-lasting.

Ear Wax Build-up

Wax helps protect the ear canal, but sometimes it can accumulate and become impacted, leading to blocked sensation, muffled hearing, or discomfort. This is especially common in people who frequently use earphones or hearing aids. Ear wax should not be removed with cotton buds, as this can push the wax deeper. Gentle softening drops or specialist removal can help relieve symptoms safely.

Nose & Sinus Conditions

Nose and sinus problems are among the most frequently reported ENT conditions because the nasal passages are constantly exposed to air, allergens, and infection. When the nose becomes blocked or inflamed, it can affect breathing, smell, sleep, and overall comfort.

Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever)

Allergic rhinitis occurs when the body reacts to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet hair, or mould. The lining of the nose becomes irritated and swollen, which can lead to congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes, and post-nasal drip that runs into the throat.

Although this condition is not dangerous, persistent symptoms can disrupt sleep, make concentration more difficult, and sometimes trigger sinus infections if swelling prevents normal drainage. Allergy management, nasal sprays, and avoiding triggers often help control symptoms.

Sinusitis (Sinus Infection)

Sinusitis is caused by inflammation of the sinuses, sometimes following a cold or allergic reaction. When the sinus passages become blocked, fluid can build up and lead to pressure, pain, and headaches.

People often experience:

• Facial pressure or aching
• Blocked nose
• Thick nasal discharge
• Reduced sense of smell
• Headaches that worsen when bending forward

Most sinus infections settle naturally, but ongoing or recurrent sinusitis may be linked to structural issues such as a deviated septum, nasal polyps. In those cases, an ENT specialist may recommend further treatment to improve long-term breathing and reduce flare-ups.

Nasal Congestion and Blockage

Nasal obstruction can develop due to swelling, allergies, infection, or the natural structure of the nose. A deviated septum, where the wall dividing the nostrils is off-centre, is extremely common and can make one side of the nose more difficult to breathe through.

When breathing is restricted over time, it can also affect sleep quality and mouth breathing, which may cause dry throat symptoms or snoring.

Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds can happen for a number of reasons, but they are often caused by dryness, irritation, or tiny blood vessels near the surface of the nasal lining. They are common in children and older adults and are usually harmless, although persistent nosebleeds require assessment.

Loss of Smell (Anosmia)

Losing the sense of smell can feel unsettling, as it affects enjoyment of food and awareness of danger signals such as smoke or gas. It is often linked to sinus inflammation, infection, or nasal polyps. Once the underlying swelling or blockage improves, the sense of smell usually returns.

Common Throat and Neck Conditions

The throat plays an essential role in breathing, eating, speaking, and protecting the airway. When irritation or infection develops in this area, symptoms are often felt immediately, making throat problems difficult to ignore.

Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis occurs when the tonsils become infected or inflamed. It is especially common in children, but adults can experience it as well. Symptoms include sore throat, fever, swollen glands, and difficulty swallowing. Some people experience repeated episodes (recurrent tonsillitis), which can interfere with eating, sleeping, or attending school or work. In those situations, surgery to remove the tonsils may sometimes be discussed.

Hoarseness and Voice Problems

The voice is produced by the vocal cords in the larynx (voice box). Irritation, overuse, inflammation, or infection can lead to hoarseness or a weakened voice. Most voice problems improve with rest and hydration, but persistent hoarseness may require an ENT assessment to rule out underlying causes.

Swallowing Difficulties

Swallowing difficulties can occur for a variety of reasons, ranging from infection to muscular irritation or swelling. Some people notice pain when swallowing, while others feel as though food is “sticking” in the throat. Persistent symptoms should be reviewed to ensure there is no underlying obstruction.

Sleep Apnoea and Snoring

Sleep apnoea occurs when breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This can be related to narrowed airways, enlarged tonsils, or nasal obstruction. People with sleep apnoea may snore heavily, feel unrefreshed on waking, or experience morning headaches. While lifestyle changes may help in mild cases, further assessment can be helpful when sleep disturbance becomes ongoing.

Neck Lumps and Gland Swelling

The neck contains lymph nodes, salivary glands, and the thyroid gland, all of which can sometimes become swollen. Many neck lumps are harmless and linked to infection, but a new or persistent lump should always be assessed to rule out more serious causes, including thyroid disease or, less commonly, cancer.

What Causes ENT Conditions?

ENT problems can develop for a wide range of reasons. Some are short-lived and related to everyday illness, while others are linked to underlying structural or age-related changes. Understanding the cause of symptoms can help determine when simple home care is enough and when a specialist opinion may be helpful.

1. Infection
   Viral and bacterial infections are one of the most frequent causes of ENT problems. A cold or sore throat can spread to the ears or sinuses when swelling blocks normal drainage. In children, the tubes between the ear and throat are shorter and more horizontal, so infection can travel more easily.
2. Allergies and Irritation
   Allergies can cause ongoing inflammation and swelling inside the nose and sinuses, leading to congestion, headaches, sinus pressure, or reduced smell. Environmental irritants such as smoke, dry air, household chemicals or pollution can have a similar effect.
3.  Structural Differences
   Some people are more prone to ENT symptoms because of the natural shape of their nose or throat. A deviated septum, enlarged tonsils, or narrowed airways can make breathing more difficult, especially during sleep. These issues may be present from birth, or they may develop gradually over time.
4. Age-Related Changes
   Hearing loss becomes more common as people get older due to natural wear of the inner ear structures. The nasal lining can also become drier and thinner with age, making nosebleeds more likely.
5. Lifestyle and Environment
   Exposure to loud noise, frequent flying, repeated infections, stress, and poor sleep can all contribute to ENT problems. Some people also find that dehydration or mouth breathing worsens throat symptoms.

When to See an ENT Specialist

Most mild ENT conditions improve on their own, but there are times when symptoms suggest a specialist assessment could be beneficial. People often delay treatment while symptoms slowly worsen, so knowing when to seek help can make a real difference.

You may want to speak to an ENT specialist if:

• Symptoms persist for several weeks or keep returning
• Hearing becomes noticeably reduced or muffled
• Vertigo or balance problems interfere with daily life
• Your sense of smell disappears for an extended period
• You experience long-term nasal blockage or mouth breathing
• Snoring is loud or sleep apnoea is suspected
• Tonsillitis is frequent or severely affects daily activities
• A neck lump appears or does not settle over time

Seeking advice early can help prevent symptoms becoming long-term or disruptive to everyday activities such as eating, speaking, or sleeping.

How ENT Conditions Are Diagnosed

Diagnosis usually begins with a medical history and a gentle examination of the ear, nose, or throat. Depending on the symptoms, a specialist may use small lights or magnifying tools to look more closely, or carry out a simple bedside test.

Further assessment may include:

Hearing tests
Used to identify the type and extent of hearing loss.

Nasal endoscopy
A thin camera used to examine the nasal passages and sinus openings.

Throat examination
A flexible scope can assess the voice box and throat lining.

Balance assessments
For dizziness or vertigo, tests may help determine whether the cause is linked to the inner ear.

These tests are generally quick and well tolerated, and they help determine the most appropriate treatment.

Treatment Options for ENT Conditions

Treatment varies depending on the cause of the condition, but most ENT problems respond well to simple measures. Where necessary, medical or procedural treatment may be discussed.

• Self-care and symptom relief
• Rest, hydration, and steam inhalation for congestion
• Saline sprays or nasal rinses
• Avoiding known allergens or irritants
• Voice rest for hoarseness
• Gentle ear drops for wax softening

Medication
Medication may be recommended to reduce inflammation or clear infection. This may include nasal sprays, antihistamines for allergies, or antibiotics for bacterial infection. Most people begin to feel relief within a few days once swelling starts to reduce.

Specialist procedures
Where symptoms are recurrent or caused by structural changes, an ENT specialist may suggest minor procedures, such as wax removal, breathing improvement surgery, or tonsil surgery in selected cases. These options are generally considered once other treatments have been tried.

Preventing Common ENT Problems

While not all ENT conditions can be prevented, there are simple steps that can help reduce risk:

• Protecting hearing by limiting loud noise exposure
• Managing allergies early before inflammation builds
• Staying hydrated to support the throat and sinuses
• Keeping the air at home well-ventilated and not overly dry
• Avoiding smoking and second-hand smoke
• Washing hands regularly to reduce infection spread
• Using saline sprays during colds to maintain nasal drainage
• Looking after general wellbeing, including sleep, nutrition, and hydration, also supports the body’s natural defence mechanisms.

Keeping An Eye On Your ENT Condition

ENT conditions are common and affect people of all ages. Most are caused by infection, allergies, inflammation, or changes in the structure of the ear, nose or throat. Although many mild problems improve on their own, some can become persistent and start to interfere with hearing, breathing, sleep, or daily comfort.

Recognising early symptoms, listening to changes in the body, and speaking to a specialist when needed can help prevent long-term irritation and improve overall quality of life. With the right guidance and treatment, most ENT conditions can be well managed, allowing patients to return to normal routines with greater comfort and confidence.

Find out more about our ENT Clinic or to book an appointment with one of our specialists, including Mr Cheka Spencer.