Ear, nose, and throat infections (ENT infections) are the most common infectious disease in the United States. Bacteria are the most common cause of ENT infection, but viruses can also cause them. Most ENT infections are caused by respiratory viruses such as rhinoviruses and coronaviruses. Your Ear, nose & throat doctor Houston, TX would like you to be aware of the following symptoms and triggers for ear, nose, and throat infections.

ENT infections symptoms

Ear wax build-up: Ear wax build-up occurs when earwax becomes trapped in the ear canal, creating a plug that can lead to infection. If you have earwax build-up, it will be very obvious. You might hear a clicking or grinding noise when you move your head, and the wax moves out of the way.

Ear pain: If you experience pain in your ear, it might signal an infection. The pain could be severe enough to prevent you from sleeping or hearing properly for several days.

Throat infections: These are common and can affect the whole body. The most common throat infections are sinusitis, tonsillitis, and pharyngitis. Sinusitis is an infection of the sinuses that causes pain behind the eyes and the forehead. It is usually caused by a virus or bacteria that has gotten into the nose and spread to the sinuses. Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils (tissues in the back of your throat). Pharyngitis is an infection in your throat that causes fever, sore throat, headache, cough, and hoarseness.

Nasal infections: Nasal infections often begin with the common cold and flu. They can cause a runny nose, sneezing, and a slight cough. If a viral infection is not properly treated, it may lead to more serious problems, including sinusitis.

ENT infection causes

Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils. Tonsils are small glands located at the back of the mouth, just behind the soft palate (the flap of tissue that separates the back of your mouth from your throat). They are covered by a thin layer of tissue called the tonsillar pillars. A bacterial infection like tonsillitis may result from an ear infection or other upper respiratory tract infection (URTI), or an allergy may cause it to cold weather or airborne irritants like dust and pollen.

Nasopharyngitis

Nasopharyngitis is inflammation of one or both sides of the nose. A common symptom is a persistent bright red or pink nose with a burning sensation when you breathe through your mouth. The problem may be from congestion and irritation that causes blood vessels in the lining of your nose to become swollen (inflammation). If left untreated, this condition can lead to infection if it does not clear up within a few days.

Cold and Flu Viruses

The most common cause of ENT infections is the parainfluenza virus. This virus is spread through coughing, sneezing, or contact with infected people. The most common symptoms of this virus include a runny nose and sore throat. Other cold viruses can also cause ear infections (otitis media).

Finally, ear, nose, and throat infections commonly affect the inner ear and throat. Bacteria or fungi can cause them or be due to allergies. To learn more about ENT infections, reach out to Northwest Houston Heart Center.