Some conditions of the ear, nose and throat can be handled by your family physician. Others may require the attention of a specialist. In choosing an otolaryngologist (oh-toe-lair-in-GAWL-oh-jist), the first step is accreditation.

Otolaryngology (oh-toe-lair-in-GAWL-oh-gee) is a medical specialty focusing on diseases and conditions of the ears, nose, and throat. Over the past fifty years, the field has expanded to include most surgery in the areas of the head and neck.

Young bodies are particularly susceptible to ear, nose, and throat problems. Children haven't had the opportunity to build up the resistance to disease that adults have.

An otolaryngologist (oh-toe-lair-in-GAWL-uh-jist) is a doctor who specializes in conditions which affect the ear, nose or throat. Technically, the word is shortened from an even longer word: otorhinolaryngologist (oh-toe-RYE-no-lair-in-GAWL-oh-jist).