ENT Disorders as a Result of Smoking

India is home to 267 million tobacco users, many of whom smoke cigarettes and bidis. 28.6% of India’s population uses tobacco, and 10.7% of all Indian adults smoke. These figures not only point out the prevalence of tobacco use in India, but also the consequences of tobacco use, which can result in a range of ENT (ear, nose, and throat) disorders or complications. ENT specialists in Gurgaon credit a wide range of ailments to smoking and regular tobacco use. These ailments include:

Head and Neck Cancers

Smoking is among the leading cause of head and neck cancers, including laryngeal cancers, throat cancers, oral cancer, and lesser-known cancer types such as nasal cavity cancer and salivary gland cancer. Affecting the ears, nose, and throats, these cancers are primary examples of life-threatening diseases linked to smoking. The link between cancers of the ears, nose, and throat is so strong that, tobacco use is said to be a cause in:

  • 64% of Laryngeal Cancers
  • 17% of Oral Cancers
  • 37% of Pharyngeal Cancers
  • 25% of Nasopharyngeal Cancers

Bearing in mind the causative link between smoking and ears, nose, and throat cancers, the leading ENT surgeons in Gurgaon recommend periodical ENT checkups for smokers, as a significant means of cancer screening. Smoking can cause other ear, nose, and throat issues as well. Read further to know more.

Tinnitus & Hearing Loss

Tinnitus is a condition of the ears defined by ringing sounds in the ears. Smoking is side to aggravate Tinnitus by acting as a stimulant and restricting blood glow. Apart from Tinnitus, studies suggest that smokers are 75% more likely to experience some degree of hearing loss.

Apart from cancers of the ears, nose, and throat, and tinnitus, the impact of smoking is extensive, often leading to:

  • GERD
  • Loss of taste and smell
  • Cleft lip and palate
  • Chronic laryngitis
  • Thyroid disorders
  • Bad breath
  • Throat hoarseness and discomfort
  • Ear infections

With an understanding of the impacts of smoking on the ears, nose, and throat, leading ENT surgeons in Gurgaon recommend periodical ENT consultations for smokers. Miracles Healthcare is home to leading ENT specialists in Gurgaon, making effective ENT disorders treatment available to all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, cigarette smoke can irritate the ear canal and Eustachian tube, increasing the risk of ear infections and hearing loss, especially in kids.

 

Smoking can cause several diseases including lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, stroke, and throat cancer.
 

Smoking reduces blood flow to the inner ear, damages auditory nerves, and increases the risk of middle ear infections, leading to hearing loss over time.
 

You can try swallowing, yawning, gentle nose-blowing, or using a warm compress; consult an ENT specialist if the blockage continues.
 

Yes, quitting smoking can slow down further hearing damage and may slightly improve hearing sensitivity over time.
 

Mild ear infections usually clear up in 2–3 days, but some may last up to a week or require antibiotics if continue.
 

Yes, quitting smoking can reduce throat irritation and inflammation, helping your voice become clearer and less hoarse over time.
 

Gurgaon has several reputed ENT specialists; at Miracles Mediclinic, you will find experienced ENT doctors known for treating ear, nose, and throat conditions with precision and care.

Miracles Mediclinic is one of the best clinics in Gurgaon for ENT problems, offering advanced diagnostics and expert care for all age groups.
 

Smoking affects blood flow and nerve function in the ear, which can start or worsen ringing sounds (tinnitus).