Many adults experience ear, nose and throat (ENT) symptoms that seem mild at first but may indicate underlying issues if they persist or recur. Some symptoms interfere with sleep, breathing, hearing or daily functioning, and may require assessment by an ENT doctor.
This article answers common questions adults in Singapore search for when deciding whether an ENT evaluation is needed.
Key Pointers (Summary for Adults)
- A chronic blocked nose lasting weeks or months may be related to sinus issues, allergies, or structural concerns.
- Snoring in adults can be linked to airway narrowing or sleep-related breathing disorders.
- Hearing loss that develops gradually or suddenly should be evaluated early.
- Recurrent or persistent throat infections may indicate chronic tonsil or throat issues.
- ENT assessment helps identify whether symptoms have underlying causes requiring management.
Why Is My Nose Blocked All the Time?
A blocked nose can occur during a flu, but prolonged congestion may signal other conditions.
Possible causes of chronic nasal congestion include:
- Nasal allergies (allergic rhinitis)
- Sinus infections
- Sensitive nasal lining
- Deviated nasal septum
- Nasal polyps
When to consider seeing an ENT doctor:
- Blocked nose lasts longer than 2–3 weeks
- Symptoms recur frequently
- Breathing difficulty affects sleep
- Reduced sense of smell
- Persistent facial pressure or headaches
Persistent nasal symptoms may require examination of the nasal passages or sinuses.
Should I Be Concerned About Snoring?
Snoring is common but may indicate narrowing of the airway.
Snoring may be associated with:
- Nasal obstruction
- Enlarged soft tissues in the throat
- Sleep-related breathing conditions
- Lifestyle factors (weight, sleeping position)
Signs to watch for:
- Loud snoring most nights
- Gasping or pauses during sleep
- Morning headaches
- Daytime tiredness
If snoring disrupts rest or occurs with breathing pauses, assessment may be helpful to determine contributing factors.
What Does It Mean If I Notice Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss in adults can be gradual or sudden.
Possible causes include:
- Age-related changes
- Noise exposure
- Ear infections
- Wax buildup
- Middle ear conditions
- Inner ear disorders
Important signs to get checked:
- Difficulty hearing in conversations
- Needing higher volume on devices
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Blocked-ear sensation
- Sudden hearing loss (requires early assessment)
Early evaluation supports clearer understanding of the cause and next steps.
Are Recurrent Throat Infections a Concern?
Throat infections can occur from viruses, bacteria or irritation.
Symptoms that may require ENT review:
- Frequent sore throats
- Persistent throat discomfort
- Pain during swallowing
- Swollen tonsils or visible white patches
- Bad breath
- Recurrent tonsillitis
Repeated or long-lasting infections may affect eating, sleep or work performance.
When Should Adults Seek an ENT Specialist?
You may consider consulting an ENT doctor if symptoms:
- Last longer than expected
- Keep recurring despite treatment
- Affect breathing, hearing or sleep
- Interfere with work or daily activities
- Are associated with fever, swelling or sudden changes
Specialist evaluation helps determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate management.
FAQs About Adult ENT Symptoms
1. When is a blocked nose considered chronic?
If it lasts more than a few weeks or keeps recurring, further assessment may be needed.
2. Does snoring always mean sleep apnea?
Not always, but persistent snoring may indicate airway narrowing.
3. Should I get my hearing checked even if the loss seems mild?
Yes. Early evaluation helps identify reversible or progressive causes.
4. How many throat infections are considered frequent?
Multiple episodes within a year may warrant ENT assessment.
5. Can lifestyle changes help with ENT symptoms?
Certain measures may help, but persistent symptoms should be evaluated.
Having Persistent ENT Symptoms? Early Evaluation Helps Identify the Cause.
If you experience ongoing blocked nose, snoring, hearing changes or throat infections, an ENT consultation can help determine whether further management is needed.
