ENT consolidation lecture Flashcards
Describe Ear Infection
May affect inner, outer (otitis externa) or middle (otitis media) ear. Extent to which “systemic” symptoms/involvement may vary dependent on the specific amount
Describe Excessive earwax build-up
Naturally present, but in excess can lead to impaction. Potentially leading to pain, hearing loss, tinnitus etc.
Describe Tinnitus
Constant or intermittent sounds (buzzing, ringing) where there is no external stimuli. Significant variety of causes, with some confined to the ear (i.e. earwax impaction, hearing loss) and others more systemic (i.e. diabetes, thyroid disorders)
Describe vertigo
Sensation of movement / “spinning” when stationary. Frequently caused by inner ear issues, but can also be related to brain injuries or impairments (i.e. stroke, trauma)
Describe allergic rhinitis
“Hayfever” - inflammation of the nose and sinuses in reaction to an allergen, causing symptoms including sneezing, itchiness and a runny nose.
Describe sinusitis
Inflammation or infection of the sinuses, which can cause nasal or facial congestion, thick nasal mucus and can cause the loss of smell, headaches
Describe nosebleed (epistaxis)
Loss of blood from the tissue lining the nose. Can be anterior (affecting lower part of the nose), or posterior (deep within nose, affecting larger blood vessels)
Describe nasal obstruction
Partial or complete obstruction of the nostrils through swelling, inflammation or other blockage, causing impaired nasal breathing. Can be caused by nasal polyps, tumour, foreign body inhalation etc.
Describe sore throat
Commonly encountered in a range of conditions, including colds and flu, allergies and GORD. Often viral self-limiting and potentially self-limited.
Describe Bacterial throat infection and tonsillitis
Associated with sore throat and/or infection of the tonsils, potentially
Describe Laryngitis
Inflammation of the voice box, or larynx. It’s usually caused by a viral infection, or by straining your voice.
Describe Dysphagia
Difficulty or inability to swallow. Can relate to dysfunction in the mouth, throat or oesophagus. Can be caused to presence physical obstruction, or disease (i.e. stroke, head injury, cancer, GORD)
