The abbreviation ENT stands for Ear, Nose, and Throat. It refers to a medical specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting these areas, as well as the head and neck. Otolaryngologists, also known as ENT doctors, are specialists in this field.
What does ENT encompass?
ENT specialists address a wide range of conditions, including:
- Infections of the ear, nose, and throat
- Hearing loss
- Balance disorders
- Sinus issues
- Sleep apnea
- Head and neck cancers
- Facial trauma
Many resources, including medical websites like Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic, confirm this meaning. Furthermore, reputable dictionaries like Merriam-Webster define ENT as "a physician specializing in medical conditions of the ear, nose, throat, and neck: otolaryngologist." The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) also lists ENT as an abbreviation for ears, nose, and throat. Even a medical school like the University of Iowa (Iowa Head and Neck) uses the abbreviation in its list of common otolaryngology abbreviations.
