Surprising Reasons Children Need An ENT Specialist

As a parent, you will want the best for your child. A good quality education, happy home life, and overall health and wellness will be imperative for your child. Unfortunately, certain conditions may arise that require the treatment of specialists. If your child is dealing with one or more of the following issues of the ear, nose, and throat, it is time to visit an ENT specialist.

Ear Infections

The majority of children will develop an ear infection at one point in time. However, children that develop ear infections regularly or suffer from ear infections that never seem to heal may have an underling issue that needs to be addressed by a specialist.

A child that has chronic ear infections most likely has an abnormally developed Eustachian tube. This tube is located inside the ear and allows wax, bacteria, and fluid to drain out of the inner ear.

Without proper drainage, the residue and fluid will build up inside the ear's tube, eventually swelling and becoming infected. If left untreated, the ear drum may burst, causing pain and permanent hearing issues.

Antibiotics are the most common treatment for children with ear infections, but long term use of these medications is not recommended. Specialists may recommend opening up the ear canal with special tubes. This will improve drainage, reducing swelling and inflammation.

If your child is dealing with recurring or multiple ear infections, visit an ear, nose, and throat specialist today.

Sleep Issues

You may be surprised to learn that your child's sleeping issues may stem from an issue in their throat. Enlarged tonsils can cause your child's throat to constrict, reducing their flow of air. This can lead to breathing issues and breathing lapses while your child is asleep. Known as sleep apnea, this condition can be dangerous and life-threatening if left untreated.

If you notice your child is snoring loudly, losing their breath while asleep, wetting the bed, or is extremely tired during the daytime hours, they may have sleep apnea.

Removing the enlarged tonsils will improve your child's ability to breathe while sleeping. An ENT specialist will need to determine the cause of these enlarged tonsils, as well.

Many children with enlarged tonsils have allergies, which can be treated by avoiding their specific allergens, such as dust or pet dander. In some instances, a child's tonsils will be enlarged if they have acid reflux, so it is important to consult a specialist if your child has the symptoms of sleep apnea.

Help is available if your child develops recurring or frequent ear infections or has difficulty sleeping. By consulting an ear, nose, and throat specialist, you can get the help your child needs. For more information, contact a company like Surgery Center of Kenai.


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