When to Visit an ENT: Guide for Costa del Sol

Otolaryngology is a medical speciality that encompasses far more than most people imagine. Beyond typical colds and earaches, the otolaryngologist (ENT) is the specialist of reference for a wide variety of conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, head and neck. At our practice in Malaga and Marbella, we see patients from across the Costa del Sol with problems ranging from allergic rhinitis to nasal reconstructive surgery.

Warning signs: when you should consult

Certain symptoms should prompt a consultation with an ENT specialist without delay. Recognising these warning signs in time can make the difference in the prognosis and treatment of many conditions.

Nasal and breathing problems

You should see an ENT if you experience persistent nasal obstruction that does not improve with over-the-counter treatments -- a constantly blocked nose that hinders breathing. Also if you have recurrent sinusitis, with frequent episodes of facial pain, congestion and thick nasal discharge. Intense snoring accompanied by breathing pauses during sleep requires urgent evaluation, as it may indicate obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome. Loss of smell (anosmia) or its reduction (hyposmia), especially if prolonged, warrants specialist evaluation. Similarly, frequent nosebleeds (recurrent epistaxis) that are not controlled with simple measures should be investigated to rule out underlying causes.

Ear problems

Hearing loss, whether gradual or sudden, is an important reason for consultation. Sudden hearing loss constitutes an ENT emergency requiring immediate treatment to maximise recovery prospects. Persistent tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear), episodes of vertigo (sensation of the surroundings spinning), recurrent ear infections and chronic pressure or fullness sensation in the ear are all reasons to consult a specialist.

Throat and voice problems

Voice changes persisting for more than two weeks (hoarseness, dysphonia, breathy voice) should be evaluated, especially in smokers or voice professionals. Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or the sensation of a foreign body in the throat, recurrent tonsillitis and chronic sore throat are also indications for ENT consultation.

Lacrimal problems

Constant tearing (epiphora) is a sign that the tear drainage system may be obstructed. Recurrent lacrimal sac infections (dacryocystitis) and swelling or pain in the area between the eye and nose should be evaluated by a lacrimal surgery specialist.

Conditions we treat at our practice

Rhinology and nasal surgery

As a rhinology specialist, Dra. Fanjul offers a complete range of treatments for nasal pathologies. Functional and aesthetic rhinoplasty is one of our areas of greatest specialisation, including advanced techniques such as ultrasonic rhinoplasty. We also treat deviated nasal septum through septoplasty, chronic sinusitis with endoscopic sinus surgery, nasal polyps, turbinate hypertrophy and nasal and paranasal sinus tumours.

Lacrimal surgery

Lacrimal pathway surgery is another of our specialisation areas. We perform endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy to resolve tear duct obstruction, lacrimal probing and other procedures to restore normal tear drainage.

Otology

We diagnose and treat ear diseases, including hearing loss, ear infections, tinnitus, vertigo and middle ear pathology.

Laryngology and voice pathology

We evaluate and treat voice and throat disorders, including dysphonia, vocal cord nodules and polyps, laryngopharyngeal reflux and dysphagia.

Why choose a specialist on the Costa del Sol

The Costa del Sol, with its resident population and significant international community, requires top-tier specialised medical services. Our practice in Malaga and Marbella offers several advantages for patients in the region. Geographical accessibility: with consultations in Malaga and Marbella, we cover a wide area including Estepona, Fuengirola, Benalmadena, Torremolinos and the entire western Costa del Sol. Patients do not need to travel to large cities to receive the highest level of specialist care. Bilingual care: our practice sees patients in Spanish and English, which is especially relevant in an area with a significant British, Scandinavian and wider European community. Cutting-edge technology: we have the latest diagnostic and surgical equipment, including high-definition nasal endoscopy, audiometry, rhinomanometry and piezoelectric instruments for ultrasonic rhinoplasty. Personalised approach: each patient receives an individualised evaluation and a treatment plan adapted to their specific needs. Dra. Fanjul dedicates the necessary time to each consultation to guarantee quality care.

Preparing for your first visit

If you decide to consult an ENT, it is useful to prepare to make the most of your appointment. We recommend noting your symptoms in detail, including when they began, their frequency and intensity. Bring a list of medications you currently take, including nasal or ear treatments. If you have previous medical reports, imaging studies or prior audiometries, bring them to the consultation. And do not hesitate to prepare a list of questions you wish to ask.

When it is urgent

Some symptoms require urgent ENT attention. Sudden hearing loss (especially if it occurs overnight) needs treatment within the first 48-72 hours. Severe vertigo with nausea and vomiting, profuse nosebleeds that do not stop with pressure, peritonsillar abscess (intense sore throat with difficulty opening the mouth), and breathing difficulty from nasal or pharyngeal obstruction are also emergency situations. If you experience any of these symptoms and are in Malaga, Marbella or anywhere on the Costa del Sol, do not hesitate to contact our practice. Dra. Fanjul and her team are prepared to attend to you and offer the best solution for your ENT health.