Otolaryngology Emergencies in the Elderly in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: At the age of 65 years and above, besides physiological changes, different health challenges can be observed. Some of these health challenges in these patients come as emergencies. An extraordinary clinical approach is required to medically assist in their management. Methods: This is a six-year retrospective study (January 2017 – December 2022) of 90 geriatric cases seen within this period of study who presented with otolaryngological emergencies in our centre. Their case notes were retrieved and information collected from them was put on tables and analysed. Results: There were 54 males (60%) and 36 females (40%) and upper airway obstruction from laryngeal tumour constituted the highest with 21 (23.3%). This is followed by nasal medical emergencies with epistaxis 16 (17.8%). The least was orbital cellulitis and hypopharyngeal tumour 1 (2.2%) each. Conclusion: Medical emergencies in the elderly can be challenging. This is because the health status of this age group has been sometime compromised. Additional medical emergency calls for urgent medical specialist attention.