Ear, nose, and throat problems are common in childhood and are a primary reason parents take their kids to the doctor. Some of the more common ENT problems among kids include:

Ear infections: Ear infections are the number one reason children visit their doctor. In fact, 80% of kids will develop an ear infection before the age of three. Most ear infections happen in the middle ear (otitis media.) They occur when the canal that links the throat to the middle ear, known as the eustachian tube, becomes inflamed, typically from a cold. In older children, ear infections can also result from allergies. The swelling of the eustachian tube allows fluid to back up behind the eardrum. This causes pressure and can lead to the development of bacteria or viruses that cause ear infections.

There are different types of Otitis Media. Treatment depends on the specific cause of the middle ear infection. For chronic problems, your ENT may suggest ear tubes. During a simple, out-patient procedure called a myringotomy, your children’s ENT will insert a small tube at the opening of the eardrum. This tube allows fluid to properly drain out of the middle ear and keeps the fluid from reaccumulating.

Sleep disorders can significantly impact your child’s health and well-being. Sleep apnea, a condition in which the child briefly stops breathing during the night, should be treated by an ENT professional. Sleep apnea is caused by a blockage in the airway. For children, this is usually a result of large adenoids or large tonsils.

Most children will snore every now and then. However, if your child consistently snores loudly or breathes funny while sleeping, he or she may have sleep apnea. This condition is best diagnosed during a sleep study. If your child’s ENT determines large adenoids or tonsils to be the culprit, you may consider surgery to remove them.

Allergies or allergic Rhinitis is typically known as hay fever. It can be seasonal or year round. Rhinitis is a common ENT problem among children. It can cause congestion, nasal discharge, sleep issues, and other annoying symptoms. Rhinitis is best treated by determining the source of the allergy. Allergy shots may be prescribed to children as young as 5. The shots help build up a child’s immunity to the allergen to lessen its severity.

Tonsillitis of a tonsil infection refers to an inflammation of the tonsils (the masses of tissue on both sides of the back of the throat.) Tonsillitis is often caused by bacterial (such as strep) or viral infections. Your child’s ENT may recommend surgical removal of the tonsils; if your child’s tonsils are large and obstruct normal breathing or if your child experiences chronic tonsillitis. The procedure, called a tonsillectomy is one of the most common surgeries performed on children.

Sinusitis (Sinus Infections): Near the nose, there are air filled holes known as sinuses. These cavities can often become blocked by fluid or discharge caused by a cold or allergies. The build-up of fluid often leads to the growth of bacteria, resulting in an infection known as sinusitis.

Acute sinusitis may clear up on its own. Your doctor may also prescribe your child medication or antihistamines. Chronic sinusitis should be treated by an ENT professional such as those from Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists in Stamford, CT. Treatments for chronic sinusitis may include medications, nose sprays with steroids, immunotherapy with allergy shots, and in certain cases, sinus surgery.