It is 2024, and many people still overlook ear, nose, and throat conditions in children. Some think that such conditions can be treated without seeking medical help, while others don’t get them diagnosed properly, which can lead to hearing loss and speech complications.
However, undiagnosed and untreated ear, throat, and nose conditions can invite complications that will have an enduring effect on the child’s health. For example, untreated ear infections can elevate to hearing loss and speech complications. That is why such conditions shouldn’t be ignored, and your child must receive expert help immediately. Read on to know how.
What are the diseases of the ear, nose, and throat?
The head and neck bear a series of interlinked systems and hence carry a close relation in diseases as well. Therefore, ear, nose, and throat infections are collectively known as ENT infections and can become highly complicated if not taken seriously.
Some common Ear, Nose, and Sore Throat Conditions in children include:
| EAR | NOSE | THROAT |
| Middle ear inflammation/imbalance | Allergy of pollen grains, spores, mold, dust, medicine, food, pet hair, etc. | Sore throat (viral flu or cold infection) |
| Deafness | Sinusitis (inflammation of the sinus due to bacterial growth) | Pneumococcal infections (bloody or green mucus sputum release with breathing and coughing pain). |
| Meniere (inner ear disorders) | – | Diphtheria (sore throat infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae). |
| Ear infection (mucus-clogged inner tubes) | – | – |
| Dizziness | – | – |
What is a pediatric ENT?
During the 19th century, when doctors discovered the interconnection of ear, throat, and nose, one of the oldest medical specialties, Otolaryngology, emerged. ENT doctors often referred to as Otolaryngologists, specialize in treating ENT conditions and perform surgery of delicate hand and neck tissues.
So, the ones who deal with children’s ENT conditions are called pediatric ENT specialists or pediatric otolaryngologists.
Why Should You Choose a Pediatric ENT for Your Child?
Even though children’s ENT conditions can be treated by general otolaryngologists, they are not very experienced in handling explicit ENT issues related to children. Pediatric otolaryngologists can handle complicated conditions in children better than general ones.
Pediatric otolaryngologists are also experts in handling intellectual, anatomical, and emotional issues of children. So, unlike adults who can describe their symptoms really well, children can not, and Pediatric otolaryngologists are specially trained to uncover them.
They are also gentle in handling children needing surgery and have rooms designed specifically for children to adjust to.
Expert Care Approaches
Here are three expert care approaches for ENT conditions:
Accurate Diagnosis
Due to the interlinked connection, the right diagnosis of a particular ENT condition is the first step towards an effective treatment. Pediatric ENT specialists use different diagnostic techniques, including imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans, physical examinations, and laboratory tests such as blood tests etc., to diagnose the condition well.
Treatment Options
After receiving the right diagnosis, treatment for ENT conditions becomes easier and more specific. Medications like antibiotics, antihistamines, and pain relievers are commonly used. In some cases, surgical interventions like adenoidectomy for breathing complications may be needed.
Choosing the Right Specialist
To make the right diagnosis and treatment for your child’s ENT, you have to be serious about choosing the right pediatric otolaryngologist. Always look for board-certified pediatric otolaryngologists and employ holistic care if necessary.
Bottomline
The best person for the heart is a cardiologist. Similarly, no general physical or ENT specialist can resolve your child’s ENT conditions better than a pediatric otolaryngologist. So, if your child is in pain, you should not skip your visit to the right pediatric otolaryngologist for accurate diagnosis, treatment, and expert care for ENT conditions.
