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Nose and sinus-related problems
Diabetics usually have more nose and sinus infections ( the sinuses are spaces in the skull bones connected to the nose ). It includes simple rhinitis ( nasal inflammation ) and nasal vestibulitis ( infection of the nostrils ' hair-bearing area ). The latter may be treated with oral and local antimicrobials while the former usually requires oral antimicrobials and nasal steroid sprays .
Of more concern is the dangerous ‘ Acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis ’. The fungal infection spreads in the sinuses and may encroach onto the brain . It presents with severe headache , malaise , nasal discharge , and fever . Hospitalization may be required , intravenous medication and , often , surgical intervention .
Throat-related problems
Generally , throat infections tend to be more common in poorly controlled diabetics . In severe cases , the spread of infections and abscess formation in the neck area may result in airway compromise . This severe condition would
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need hospitalization , intravenous antibiotics , and anti-inflammatories , and sometimes , surgical drainage of the abscess .
Other concerns
If a diabetic patient needs any ENT surgery , careful control of the diabetes is important , as specific procedures require the use of steroids , which may cause the blood glucose to rise .
Wound and surgical site healing tends to be slower in diabetic patients .
What can a diabetic person do ?
If one is diagnosed with diabetes , then the control of diabetes is of paramount concern . The hallmark of this is control of blood glucose .
To achieve this , diet management , exercise , weight control , and lifestyle changes , oral medication , and in many cases , the use of insulin would be necessary . It is the most important measure to avoid ENT and other complications .
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In particular , one must have excellent hygiene of the ENT-related areas . It includes gentle nasal douching , good oral health with regular , effective tooth brushing and flossing , avoiding water entry into the ears , and avoiding ‘ cotton bud ’ cleaning . Avoid smoking , as it is linked with worsening of hearing loss . Ear-phones should be cleaned regularly , if used .
One should have periodic essential ENT check-ups and hearing tests done .
If one has the following ENT related symptoms , one should consult an ENT surgeon :
• Hearing loss , tinnitus , and dizziness
• Persistent ear itch , discharge , or earache
• Persistent nasal discharge , fever , and feeling of pressure in face and head areas
• Severe headache
• Severe throat pain and neck swelling
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What would the ENT surgeon do ?
First , a careful diagnosis would be established , including a clinical examination , perhaps microbial studies , radiological scanning , and hearing tests .
Treatment may involve :
• Antibiotics , antifungal , and anti-inflammatories locally , as in drops , or systemically .
• Nasal decongestants and nasal steroid sprays .
• Cleaning of the affected area , for example , surgical toilet or syringing ( washing ) of the ear .
• In some cases , operative intervention may be necessary .
Conclusion
A variety of ENT conditions are linked with diabetes . The most important measure to avoid complications is to ensure adequate control of diabetes .
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