Diagnostic nasolaryngoscopy

Book an appointment
HWH Pic

Our private Diagnostic nasolaryngoscopy services are provided at the Hadley Wood Hospital, High Barnet.

To find out more about our hospitals click here:

View hospitals

A diagnostic nasolaryngoscopy is a procedure used to help diagnose conditions concerning the nose and throat. A soft, flexible scope, which emits light, is used, enabling the ENT specialist to closely examine inside the nasal passages and throat.

Do I need a diagnostic nasolaryngoscopy?

A nasolaryngoscopy can be used to investigate a range of symptoms, such as blockages in the nose, catarrh (build-up of mucus in the nose), an ongoing sore throat, cough or hoarse voice, as well as lumps in the throat and issues with coughing and swallowing.

The procedure

It is usually carried out as an outpatient procedure, meaning you’ll be able to go home shortly afterwards. First, a local anaesthetic spray will be used to numb the area and make the procedure more comfortable. This may taste a little bitter and make your throat tighten slightly, which just means the numbing is taking effect. The ENT consultant will then gently pass the scope into one or both of your nostrils and into your throat. You’ll be asked to breathe through your mouth as this is happening. The scope emits light, enabling the consultant to get a much clearer, close-up look inside your nose, throat and around the vocal chords, if required, than would otherwise be possible.

Your consultant may ask you to sing a note, puff your cheeks out or stick your tongue out while they are carrying out the examination – which they’ll explain if necessary. Once the examination is complete, the scope will be gently removed. You’ll be advised to wait until the anaesthetic wears off before eating and drinking anything (around one hour) but aside from that, you should be able to carry on with your day as normal.

Your consultant will normally be able to obtain your diagnosis and explain any findings right away. Depending on the results of the procedure, you may be invited for a follow-up, or further tests or treatments may be required.

Get in touch

    Do you have a referral for your test or scan? *

    Please note, a referral is required from a Consultant or GP before we can book your scan or test. If you do not have a referral, our team can book you in for an initial consultation with a relevant specialist who will refer as appropriate.

    Unfortunately our team is unable to help with NHS enquiries. If you are enquiring about NHS care, please visit https://www.royalfree.nhs.uk/contact-us.

    Please note, some consultants and services are only available at specific hospitals. If the hospital you select doesn't offer the service you require, we will recommend an alternative hospital.

    By using this form, you consent with the storage and handling of your data by our team.

    We may contact you by email, SMS or phone about your enquiry. If we try to contact you by phone (mobile and/or landline) and you are not available, we may leave you a voicemail message.

    To learn about how we collect sensitive information on this website and how we use your information, please view our privacy policy.