Common ENT Conditions and When to Refer with Ashley Agan, MD

The Pinnacle Prescription

Dr. Ashley Agan, a board-certified otolaryngologist, provides an in-depth exploration of ear, nose, and throat (ENT) health, breaking down the fundamentals in an accessible and informative way. With a strong passion for lifestyle medicine, Dr. Agan shares how she integrates holistic and preventive approaches into her treatment plans to optimize patient outcomes. She delves into common ENT conditions, offering valuable insights on when to seek specialist care and the key signs that warrant a referral. Additionally, Dr. Agan emphasizes the importance of aligning medical decisions and lifestyle choices with personal values, empowering individuals to take a proactive role in their health and well-being.

Takeaways

• Sudden hearing loss is an ENT emergency that requires immediate treatment with high-dose steroids.
• Recurrent ear infections, sinus infections, and tonsillitis are common conditions that can be effectively treated with surgery.
• Avoid using Q-tips to clean ears as it can push wax against the eardrum or cause injury.
• Incorporating lifestyle changes, such as a whole food plant-based diet, can improve ENT conditions like allergies and reflux.
• Aligning actions with personal values can lead to greater peace and fulfillment in both personal and professional life.

Dr. Ashley Agan is a board-certified otolaryngologist, podcaster, wife, toddler mom, and founder of a concierge ENT practice in Dallas, TX called Scottie. She completed her residency at UT Southwestern Medical Center. She served as a faculty member at UT Southwestern for 7 years, holding leadership roles in otolaryngology education and patient care. She specializes in ear, nose, and throat disorders, particularly eustachian tube disorders. Dr. Agan is one of only a handful of otolaryngologists in the country treating patulous eustachian tube. She is also a member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine and is an advocate for the power of lifestyle medicine to improve patient outcomes. Outside of her career, Dr. Agan enjoys family time, traveling, gardening, and strength training. She hosts the BackTable ENT podcast, contributing to peer education on emerging research and healthcare trends.

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