What does nasal endoscopy show?
The study reveals a curvature of the septum in the posterior sections, hypertrophy of the nasal turbinates, polyps, enlarged adenoids, purulent discharge from the anastomosis of a particular sinus and neoplasms of the nasopharynx. In children, this is the main method of assessing adenoids - more precisely, X-rays and without radiation exposure. The procedure takes several minutes; if necessary, the mucous membrane is numbed with a spray.
Why do people consult an ENT doctor?
An otorhinolaryngologist deals with diseases of the ear, nose and throat - from acute runny nose to chronic sinusitis, tonsillitis and hearing loss. A significant part of the complaints with which people live for years “as is” - nasal congestion, snoring, constant sore throat, noise in the ear - has a specific cause and is treated.
There is a separate group of emergency conditions: nosebleeds, foreign bodies, acute otitis with severe pain, abscess - help in the first hours is important here.
What is included in the inspection
- rhinoscopy - examination of the nasal cavity, assessment of the septum and nasal turbinates
- pharyngoscopy - examination of the pharynx and palatine tonsils
- laryngoscopy - examination of the larynx and vocal folds
- otoscopy - examination of the ear canal and eardrum
- assessment of nasal breathing and, if necessary, hearing
When is an endoscope needed?
A normal examination with a reflector shows only the anterior parts of the nose. An endoscopic examination provides an overview of the posterior sections, sinus anastomoses, nasopharynx and adenoids - that is, precisely those areas where the cause of chronic runny nose, snoring and recurring otitis media in children is most often hidden.