Which Specialist Should You See for Throat and Breathing Issues?

Which department should I see?

Hello doctor, recently I've been experiencing some difficulty breathing, specifically at the intersection of my nose and throat, feeling a bit obstructed, but there's nothing actually there.
Additionally, I sometimes experience dry heaving and a lack of appetite.
Which specialty should I see...
ENT, pulmonology, or gastroenterology?

A Zhuang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/20

Dr. Li Jiaxuan reply Otolaryngology

The area where the nose and throat intersect is the nasopharynx.
It is recommended to undergo a nasopharyngoscopy or an otolaryngological examination if experiencing dry heaving and loss of appetite.
A gastrointestinal examination is also advised.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/10/20

More Info

When experiencing throat and breathing issues, it can be challenging to determine which specialist to consult. Based on the symptoms you've described—feeling of obstruction at the intersection of the nose and throat, occasional dry heaving, and lack of appetite—there are a few potential specialists you might consider.

1. Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Specialist: Given that your symptoms primarily involve the throat and nasal passages, an ENT specialist would be a logical first choice. They are trained to diagnose and treat conditions related to the upper respiratory tract, including issues with the throat, nasal passages, and sinuses. The sensation of something being "stuck" in your throat could be due to various reasons, such as post-nasal drip, allergies, or even gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can cause throat irritation and a feeling of fullness.

2. Pulmonologist: If your breathing difficulties are more pronounced or if you have a history of respiratory issues, a pulmonologist may be appropriate. They specialize in lung and respiratory conditions and can conduct tests such as pulmonary function tests or imaging studies to assess your lung health. If your symptoms are related to asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other lung conditions, a pulmonologist would be the right specialist to consult.

3. Gastroenterologist: If your symptoms of dry heaving and lack of appetite are more pronounced, and you suspect they may be related to gastrointestinal issues, a gastroenterologist could be beneficial. Conditions like GERD can cause throat discomfort and may lead to breathing difficulties due to acid reflux irritating the throat and airways. A gastroenterologist can perform tests such as an endoscopy to evaluate your esophagus and stomach.

In summary, the best course of action would be to start with an ENT specialist, as they can evaluate your throat and nasal passages for any obstructions or infections. If they determine that your symptoms are related to a respiratory condition, they may refer you to a pulmonologist. Conversely, if they suspect that your throat issues are linked to gastrointestinal problems, they may recommend seeing a gastroenterologist.

Additional Considerations
- Allergies: Allergies can cause post-nasal drip, leading to throat irritation and a sensation of obstruction. An ENT can help diagnose and treat allergies.

- Infections: Conditions such as pharyngitis or tonsillitis can cause throat discomfort and may require treatment.

- Lifestyle Factors: Consider factors such as smoking, exposure to irritants, or dietary habits that may contribute to your symptoms.

- Follow-Up: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

In conclusion, starting with an ENT specialist is advisable for your throat and breathing issues. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and guide you to the appropriate care based on their findings. Remember, early intervention can lead to better management of your symptoms and overall health.

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