Ear, nose, and throat problems are rather common in kids. Most children get an ear infection or a cold now and then. In most cases, their pediatrician can diagnose and treat the condition. However, there may be times when you need to take them to a pediatric ENT for more specialized care. Here are some signs your child should see a pediatric ENT.
Repeated Ear Infections
An occasional ear infection isn't anything too unusual for kids. But repeated ear infections are a greater cause for alarm. If your child's ear infections keep coming back after treatment, it's a good idea to seek an appointment with a pediatric ENT. There may be something more serious underlying the ear infections, such as a polyp or an abnormal inner ear shape. An ENT can diagnose and treat the underlying issue so your child does not have to keep undergoing rounds of antibiotics, which can lead to other problems in the future.
Difficulty Swallowing
The first time your child tells you that they're struggling to swallow, you might think they're being silly or exaggerating. But they're probably not. Difficulty swallowing can happen when a child develops a sinus infection, or when there are problems with the nerves associated with the throat. Your child may also have issues with their tonsils or adenoids. Difficulty swallowing can make it hard for your child to get the nutrition they need, so you should take them to a pediatric EMT promptly.
Snoring
Snoring in children is not always normal. It can indicate that your child suffers from sleep apnea, asthma, or some other condition related to the airways. Snoring can also happen due to swollen tonsils. It can interfere with the quality of your child's sleep, so it's important not to ignore it. An ENT can figure out why your child is snoring, and if needed, treat the underlying condition. This can help prevent the underlying problem from getting worse over time, and it can also help your child get better sleep. Good sleep is important for development, and it will help your child function better in school and during playtime.
Not every ear, nose, or throat complaint warrants a visit to the ENT. However, you should certainly make an appointment with an ENT if your child is experiencing any of the issues above. Being proactive will help prevent additional issues down the line.
For more information, contact a pediatric ENT doctor near you.
Share21 March 2022
Hello, my name is Marissa Johnson. Welcome to my website about visiting ear, nose and throat, or ENT, specialists for infections and allergies. When I was a young kid, I developed ear infections every month or more. The infections were extremely painful and did not respond to traditional treatment methods. My parents and I worked closely with an ENT specialist to end the ear infections for good. On this site, I will explore the methods ENT doctors use to treat infections and allergies. You are welcome to visit my site on a regular basis to learn more. Thank you for coming by.
