Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) issues in kids are more prevalent than you may assume. Kids are more susceptible to ENT problems since their immune systems and bodies are still developing. Therefore, their young bodies are more susceptible to infections and dysfunction. Many pediatric appointments with a general physician are for ENT issues like allergies, sleep-related problems, infections, and sinusitis. Although most of these concerns could be managed by a general physician, some issues may be more persistent or complicated to require the specialist of a pediatric ENT Surprise. Here are some common ENT concerns in kids.
- Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Snoring must not be overlooked as simply an inconvenience. Snoring may be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is a condition that develops because the upper airway becomes completely or partially obstructed for a short time while sleeping. Kids with OSA might cease breathing for several seconds or develop choking sounds when sleeping.
Persistent snoring or choking could affect a child’s sleep quality, and result in behavioral concerns like excessive daytime sleepiness, inattention, and hyperactivity. Therefore, parents must take their kids to an ENT doctor for snoring therapy.
- Chronic Ear Infections
Ear infections are prevalent concerns in kids because of their immature Eustachian tubes. As these tubes become shorter or more horizontally oriented, viruses and bacteria could infiltrate the middle ear and cause infections. Signs of infections include constant ear tugging, hearing loss, unexplained fever, and difficulties sleeping. Although ear infections resolve by themselves, they sometimes occur frequently, requiring the expertise of a pediatric ENT.
- Constant Tonsil Infections
Tonsilitis generally results from bacterial or viral infections. It often develops in kids and is generally accompanied by serious sore throat, bad breath, fever, and difficulties swallowing. In some areas, the tonsils might swell, and develop an abscess.
With pain medications, adequate fluid intake, and rest, kids can heal from tonsil infections. Nonetheless, in some kids, tonsilitis happens repeatedly. To reduce the severity and frequency of tonsil infections, your physician may suggest the removal of these tonsils. Your ENT specialist will determine the best care approach.
- Rhinitis
While rhinitis could be non-allergic, most causes are allergic. Allergic rhinitis could be triggered by environmental factors such as temperature changes, strong odors, and cigarette smoke. Common symptoms include runny nose, blocked nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes.
Rhinitis can affect your kid’s ability in physical activities and school performance. It could also result in snoring and poor sleep quality, impacting their concentration and energy levels. Your pediatric ENT doctor will advise you on the best care plan, whether allergic or non-allergic.
- Hearing Loss
The major causes of hearing loss in kids include ear infections, prolonged and constant exposure to injury and loud noises, and impacted ear wax. An ENT doctor’s thorough assessment could pinpoint the reason for hearing loss, which might either be permanent or reversible. Early interventions for kids are necessary because an undiagnosed hearing loss could seriously affect the kid’s language development and speech.
Children are at greater risk of suffering various forms of ENT concerns. Thus, it is important to seek expert attention from a primary care physician as soon as feasible. However, once these issues become chronic and impact your kid’s development or life quality, it indicates that you should begin seeking a pediatric ENT specialist. If not treated, these ENT concerns in kids could lead to complications like learning difficulties, dental issues, behavioral problems, chronic infections, and more. Common treatments to explore include medications, home care, and even surgery.
