Sports medicine and rehabilitation help athletes prepare for the spring season by improving...
Read MoreSpecialty doctors provide care for a variety of specific health concerns. While your primary care doctor is the first point of contact for general health issues, specialty doctors bring in-depth knowledge and advanced training to address more specific needs.
Whether you’re facing an ear problem, foot pain or digestive discomfort, a specialty doctor can assess your condition and recommend treatment options. Let’s look at some of these specialty doctors and the conditions they treat.
1. Ear, nose and throat specialists (otolaryngologists)
“Otolaryngologists, also known as ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists, are doctors who focus on diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the ears, nose and throat,” said Evelyn Balogun, M.D., Chief Medical Officer of Inspira Medical Group. “They treat a range of issues, from hearing loss and sinus infections to sleep apnea and throat disorders.” If you experience persistent earaches, difficulty breathing through your nose or a persistent sore throat, an ENT specialist can help identify the cause and recommend effective treatment, such as medication, lifestyle changes or surgery.
2. Podiatrists
Podiatrists specialize in feet and ankle care. They diagnose and treat conditions such as bunions, heel pain, flat feet and sports injuries. People with diabetes often see podiatrists regularly for foot exams because diabetic nerve damage can make foot injuries harder to detect and more prone to infection. Whether you’re dealing with foot pain, nail issues or balance problems, podiatrists offer solutions to improve mobility and overall quality of life.
3. Gastroenterologists
Gastroenterologists specialize in the digestive system, which includes the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas and gallbladder. A gastroenterologist may be able to help with symptoms like chronic stomach pain, acid reflux or unexplained weight loss. They can diagnose and treat conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease and liver disease. Gastroenterologists also perform colonoscopies to screen for colon cancer and other digestive system conditions.
4. Urogynecologists
“Urogynecologists specialize in the treatment of pelvic floor disorders that affect the urinary and reproductive systems,” said Dr. Balogun. “They help people manage conditions like urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.” Urogynecology focuses on improving quality of life by providing treatment options such as pelvic floor therapy, medication or surgical interventions. A urogynecologist may help you find relief from issues like frequent urination, bladder leakage or pelvic discomfort.
5. Thoracic surgeons
Thoracic surgeons focus on the organs inside the chest, including the heart, lungs, esophagus and other structures. They handle complex surgeries such as lung cancer removal, heart surgery or treatment for severe trauma to the chest area. Thoracic surgeons also work closely with pulmonologists and cardiologists to manage conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart disease.
Why specialty care matters
Seeing a specialist means receiving care from someone dedicated to a specific area of medicine. They are highly trained in diagnosing and treating conditions that may be more complex or require advanced knowledge. “Specialists work closely with primary care doctors to ensure their patients receive well-rounded care,” said Dr. Balogun. “They bring a depth of experience and understanding to your unique health needs, ensuring you receive the most appropriate treatments and therapies.”
When to see a specialist
Your primary care doctor may refer you to a specialist if they believe you would benefit from focused care in a specific area. You should also consider seeing a specialist if you have:
- Ongoing symptoms that haven’t improved with general care
- A condition that requires more advanced treatment or surgery
- A health concern that requires specialized diagnostic tests or procedures
If you’re dealing with a specific health concern, talk to your primary care provider to discuss whether seeing a specialist is the right decision for you.
