Oto-lar-yn-gol-o-gist: a doctor of medicine (MD) or a doctor of osteopathy (DO) specially trained to deal with the ears, nose and throat, and related structures of the head and neck. The well-trained otolaryngologist has a complete knowledge of the anatomy, physiology and disease processes of all the organs and physical structures in his specialty field. he provides medical office care and is competent to perform related surgical procedures both in his office or at a hospital setting. Most otolaryngologists will be able to handle the medical and surgical aspects of ear infections, hearing loss and vertigo, as well as throat and voice disorders, and nasal and sinus conditions, including allergy. Additionally, modern otolaryngologists will have up-to-date equipment for testing the hearing and balance mechanisms. Also, otolaryngologists are the specialists most competent to advise regarding purchase of a hearing aid.   Education and Training college - 4 years medical school - 4 years specialty training in general otolaryngology - 5 years (including 1 or 2 years of general surgical training plus 3 or 4 years of general specialty training in otolaryngology) (optional) sub-specialty training - 1 or 2 years additional training to become especially competent in one of the sub-specialty field of otolaryngology.   Sub-Specialty Fields in Otolaryngology In addition to the general specialty training, many otolaryngologists elect to obtain additional training in one of the sub-specialty fields of otolaryngology such as: allergy, facial plastic surgery, otology, otoneurology or head and neck cancer surgery.   Why Chose to Consult an Otolaryngologist? Because of their extensive knowledge of the disease processes of the head and neck, otolaryngologists are best qualified to diagnose and treat disease processes in this area. Proper examination of the ears, nose and throat requires the use of special skills and diagnostic equipment that are not commonly available to practitioners outside the field of otolaryngology. It is only through the application of these skills and technical equipment, including operating microscopes, special mirrors, telescopes, hearing and balance testing equipment, etc., that the otolaryngologist is able to properly diagnose the problem and make appropriate treatment recommendations.   Signs or Symptoms Suggesting Need for an Otolaryngologist's Care: ear infections hearing problems dizziness tinnitis (ringing in ears) nasal stuffiness headache facial pain sinus problems allergy symptoms nose bleeds facial fractures and trauma congenital or acquired deformities of the nose, ear or face unsightly scars or blemishes about the face unsightly wrinkles or other signs of aging about the eyes or face sore throats and tonsillitis taste disturbances disturbances of smell abnormal bleeding or tumor masses of the oral cavity hoarseness, airway problems, lump in throat, lumps in the neck, difficulty in swallowing