What is pediatric ENT?
Pediatric ear, nose, and throat (ENT) care is an area of medical practice focused on diagnosing and treating ENT conditions in children. This medical specialty delivers care ranging from basic ear infections to complex surgical needs.
While a pediatrician can address many minor ear, nose, and throat issues, working with a specialist is a good idea for severe symptoms or problems that keep coming back. Physicians who specialize in ENT conditions have extensive training in diagnostic and treatment tools and techniques.
What are some conditions treated by pediatric ENT specialists?
The specialists at ENT of New Orleans treat a wide range of conditions. Every effort is made to find a path to relief that is as conservative as possible.
When conservative treatments don’t work, though, surgery is often the next step and can provide lasting relief. For families who have a child suffering from repeated ENT problems, finding a permanent solution is a top priority.
Some of the common ear, nose, and throat treatments for children include:
- Perforated eardrum repair
- Repair of traumatic or congenital conditions
- Infection management
- Removal of the tonsils
- Removal of the adenoids
- Treatment for chronic sinusitis
- Thyroid nodules and tumors
- Salivary gland tumors
- Allergic reactions
- Recurring ear infections
One of the most common pediatric procedures is placing ear tubes. These tiny hollow tubes are surgically inserted into your child’s eardrum to improve airflow and ventilation.
Ear tubes prevent fluid from building up behind your child’s eardrum, a condition that can be painful. Left untreated, excessive fluid buildup can cause hearing problems and delayed speech development. Ear tubes can also reduce ear infections in children who suffer from several infections each year.
What are the signs a child has an ear, nose, or throat problem?
Kids are not always able to effectively communicate their symptoms, which is why it’s helpful for parents to know what to keep an eye out for. Some symptoms that indicate the need to see an ENT specialist include:
- Ear pain
- Sore throat
- Visible patches of white or yellow at the back of the throat
- Fever
- Excessive nasal drainage
- Bloody nasal drainage
- Stomach ache
- Loud snoring
- Swallowing problems
- Sleep disruption
- Neck stiffness
- Hearing difficulties
- Problems with speech development
- Ringing in the ears
- Frequent pulling or tugging on their ears
- Irritability
If you notice these changes in your child, call ENT of New Orleans to book a diagnostic exam. Online scheduling is available, but if your child is in pain, you can set up a same-day appointment.
We see patients all throughout the Greater New Orleans area. Call us to book your appointment today.
