Nasal-throat-ear (NKO)
Our nose and throat ear specialists offer specialised examination and treatment of upper respiratory, ear and neck region complaints. We deploy modern techniques to accurately evaluate possible ear, nose or throat conditions - useful during routine check-ups or for specific complaints.
Urgent help needed? We make time.
Need medical care quickly? Don't panic - we will do everything we can to help you as soon as possible. Call our secretariat via +32 35 35 20 40.
Experienced specialists
Our team of doctors are all well-trained and have years of practical experience. With us, you are in trusted hands.
What examinations does the NKO doctor perform?
At Doktershuis Antverpia, we perform various NKO examinations to thoroughly evaluate complaints of nose, throat, ears or voice. Depending on your complaints and medical history, we put together a targeted examination programme. We always work tailor-made, with an eye for comfort, discretion and clear communication.
Anamnesis
During the first interview, the NKO doctor questions your symptoms, medical history, medication use and family burden. This will give us a full picture of your situation and allow us to investigate further in a targeted way.
Clinical research
The doctor examines the nose, throat and ears through inspection, palpation and listening. This is often combined with functional tests, such as a throat reflex test or nasal breathing test. The aim is to detect structural or functional abnormalities.
Audiometry
With this hearing test, we objectively measure how well you perceive sounds of different pitches and volumes. Through headphones, we listen to tones at different frequencies. This allows us to evaluate hearing loss, tinnitus or other hearing problems.
Tympanometry
In tympanometry, we measure eardrum mobility and pressure in the middle ear. This examination is useful in cases of recurrent ear infections, fluid behind the eardrum or hearing loss.
Scopies
Through a flexible or rigid endoscope, the NKO doctor visualises the inside of the nose, throat or vocal cords. This allows us to detect, for example, nasal polyps, voice problems or structural abnormalities. The examination is usually short and is done after local anaesthesia.
When is an NKO survey appropriate?
Complaints such as chronic nasal congestion, persistent hoarseness, tinnitus, swallowing problems or difficulty breathing during sleep are signs that need further investigation. Using a flexible endoscope (after local anaesthesia), the doctor examines the nasal cavity, throat and vocal cords. In addition, ears are assessed and a hearing measurement follows. This allows us to find out if there are any abnormalities and how best to address them. Among other things, we examine for:
Chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps or septum abnormalities - These can lead to persistent nasal congestion, headaches, decreased sense of smell and increased risk of sinus infections. Allergies or nosebleeds - Recurrent allergic reactions can greatly affect quality of life, while frequent nosebleeds can betray an underlying cause such as mucosal irritation or vascular problems. Swallowing or voice complaints, reflux reactions in the throat - Throat irritation, hoarseness or a lumpy feeling may indicate reflux or other conditions of the throat and oesophagus that require early treatment. Risk of sleep apnoea due to breathlessness - Periodic breathing stops during sleep can lead to chronic fatigue, snoring and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Fitted hearing loss or tinnitus - Impaired hearing or tinnitus can indicate age-related hearing loss, noise exposure or disorders of the middle or inner ear. Voice disorders - especially with prolonged voice use such as singers or teachers - Hoarseness, fatigue in speaking or loss of voice may indicate vocal cord overload or injury. Smoke-related discolouration or suspicious lesions on the vocal cords - These can be a first sign of chronic irritation or even malignancy and require thorough monitoring.
Early seen is better treated
Complaints of nose, throat or ears can often be detected early and treated effectively - provided they are investigated in time. Do you experience symptoms such as hoarseness, a stuffy nose, hearing loss or recurrent sore throat? Then an NKO examination can be valuable. Especially with risk factors such as allergies, chronic sinusitis, smoking or frequent respiratory infections, regular follow-up is important. This way, you prevent complications and preserve your quality of life.
How does a consultation NKO proceed?
1. Intake & Anamnesis
The consultation starts with an exploratory interview. The NKO doctor listens to your symptoms and asks specific questions about your health history, allergies, respiratory complaints, hearing or voice problems. This way, we get a clear picture of the possible cause of your symptoms.
2. Investigate
Depending on your symptoms, the doctor will perform a targeted NTE examination. This could be an ear examination, nasal scopy, throat inspection, hearing test or allergy test. Thanks to modern equipment, we accurately map the upper airways, ears and throat - for a quick and accurate diagnosis.
3. Discussion & Treatment
After the examination, the doctor discusses the findings and, if necessary, a treatment proposal. This may include medication, lifestyle advice or a referral. Within a few working days, you will find the medical report in your eHealth or CoZo file. You receive clear explanations about the next steps.
We listen to what your body tells you
Suffering from a stuffy nose, hoarseness, tinnitus, hearing loss or recurrent sore throat? These are signs that may indicate an underlying NTE problem. At Doktershuis Antverpia, our specialists examine these complaints with care and precision, so we can quickly find out what is going on - and treat appropriately
We listen, investigate and guide. Make your appointment here.