Pediatric ENT
What Is Pediatric ENT?
Pediatric ENT is a medical specialty branch of otolaryngology focused on treating ear, nose, and throat conditions in children. Most children may not be able to accurately describe their symptoms when they’re sick, which is common due to their limited ability to articulate how they feel.
Typical signs of potential ENT issues in children include fever, irritability, delayed speech, and frequent flu episodes. It’s crucial to recognize these symptoms early in children, as untreated ENT conditions can lead to serious complications. Prompt medical attention is essential for effective management.
Why is it Called ENT and not Ear Specialist, Nose Specialist and Throat Specialist?
ENT stands for “ear, nose and throat”. The ear, nose and throat are anatomically and functionally connected, sharing pathways for hearing, taste, smell and breathing. Because of this, they are interdependent, meaning problems in one area can affect the others. For example, fluid drainage from the middle ear can be blocked by a blocked eustachian tube which runs from the ear to the throat. This can cause discomfort and ear infections. Therefore, ear, nose and throat infections are typically treated together by the same doctor.
Symptoms of a Pediatric ENT Condition
Ear Symptoms in Children
- Frequent Ear Tugging or Pulling – Think of it as if they’ve got an itch they just can’t reach. When children constantly tug at their ears, it might be more than just a habit. Ear infections or discomfort can feel like a dull ache or even a pounding drumbeat in the head.
- Ear Pain or Discomfort – Ear pain might come across like the “buzz” of too-loud music in your head. If your child seems distracted or irritable, it could be due to ear pain that won’t go away.
- Difficulty Hearing or Responding to Sounds – Imagine trying to watch TV with the volume too low or listening to someone talk through a thick wall. If your child doesn’t respond when called or needs the volume turned up higher, there might be a hearing issue.
Nose Symptoms in Children
- Constantly Blocked or Runny Nose – If your child seems to be “sniffing” every few minutes or carrying tissues around, they could be dealing with more than a common cold. Persistent congestion can feel like a nose that just won’t “clear,” making it tough for them to breathe comfortably.
- Frequent Sniffling – You know that sensation when your nose just won’t stop running? Kids experiencing allergies or nasal issues may seem to have a never-ending sniffle, and it can become a big part of their daily routine.
- Mouth Breathing or Snoring – If your child often breathes through their mouth or snores loudly, it could be because of a blocked nose, similar to how you’d feel after a stuffy cold. This kind of breathing can affect sleep quality, making them tired and irritable during the day.
Throat Symptoms in Children
- Persistent Sore Throat– Imagine waking up every morning feeling like you’ve swallowed sandpaper. A child with frequent sore throats might avoid eating certain foods or complain of throat pain regularly.
- Difficulty Swallowing– If they start avoiding their favorite foods or seem uncomfortable at mealtimes, a sore throat or enlarged tonsils might be making it hard to swallow.
- Hoarse or Raspy Voice– Similar to how our voice sounds after shouting at a concert, a child’s hoarse voice can indicate throat irritation or an underlying issue.
Behavioural Changes to Look Out For:
- Irritability– If your child is unusually cranky or upset, they may be dealing with persistent discomfort or pain. Imagine having a headache or sore throat all day—it’s tough to stay cheerful.
- Restless Sleep or Frequent Waking– ENT issues can feel like an “internal alarm” going off, waking them up multiple times a night. If your child seems exhausted during the day, it could be due to poor sleep quality.
- Changes in Learning Ability or Attention Span– Like trying to read with a buzzing noise in the background, discomfort from ENT issues can make it hard for kids to focus in school. If they seem to be falling behind or have difficulty paying attention, ENT problems might be the cause.
When To Visit A Pediatric ENT Specialist
- Sleep apnoea
- Frequent sore throats (more than five sore throats a year
- Persistent ear problems
- Ear pain lasting over 24 hours
- Recurring ear infections (3 or more in 6 months)
- Hearing difficulties or delayed speech development
- Breathing troubles
- Loud snoring
- Pauses in breathing during sleep
- Mouth breathing during the day
- Sinus issues
- Frequent headaches
- Face pain or pressure
- Thick, coloured nasal discharge lasting over 10 days
- Enlarged tonsils
- Difficulty swallowing
- Recurrent tonsillitis
- Unexplained fever
- Irritability
- Difference in behaviour
- Difficulty in learning
- Frequent colds or runny nose
- Constant sniffling in the day
- Disturbed, restless sleep
- Speech or language delay
- Attention deficit
- Speech impediments
- Tugging at the ear
- Sensitive nose (rhinitis)
- Impacted ear wax
- Enlarged lymph nodes
Pediatric ENT Benefits
1. Specialised Care
2. Child-Friendly Approach
3. Early Detection
4. Improved Quality of Life
5. Customised Treatment Plans
6. Family-Centred Care
7. Advanced Diagnostic Tools
Conditions That Pediatric ENT Addresses
Ear-Related Conditions in children
- Glue Ear (Otitis Media with Effusion) : Fluid in the middle ear, stops sound getting through, needs to be treated early to avoid long term hearing problems.
- Ear Infections : Bacterial or viral infections in the middle ear that can follow a cold, causes pain, fever and temporary hearing loss, treatable with antibiotics or other interventions.
- Ear Pain : Pain in the ear caused by infections, pressure changes, foreign objects or water, can be managed by identifying the cause and treating accordingly.
- Middle Ear Effusion : Fluid behind the eardrum, usually due to infection or eustachian tube dysfunction.
- Ruptured Eardrum : A hole in the eardrum caused by infection, trauma or sudden pressure changes.
- Auditory Neuropathy : A hearing disorder where sound gets into the inner ear but the signals from the inner ear to the brain don’t get transmitted.
- Cholesteatoma : A skin growth in the middle ear behind the eardrum, can be congenital or due to chronic ear infections.
- Hearing Loss : Partial or total loss of hearing, can be due to congenital defects, infection or injury.
- Mastoiditis : Mastoid bone infection (usually due to untreated or poorly managed middle ear infection)
- Impacted Ear Wax : Excessive buildup of ear wax that can block the ear canal and impair hearing.
Nose-Related Conditions
- Snoring : Caused by big tonsils or adenoids in kids, snoring can disrupt sleep but isn’t always a big deal.
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) : Breathing stops due to big tonsils and adenoids during sleep, can cause developmental delays and behavioral issues in kids.
- Sleep Apnea : When a kid stops breathing during sleep, often due to OSA and untreated can cause big health and developmental issues; treatment may involve tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy.
- Sinusitis : Infection or allergy causing sinus inflammation and swelling, facial pain and nasal congestion; treatment is focused on identifying and managing the trigger.
- Epistaxis (Nosebleeds):Common in kids, usually due to dry air, nasal trauma or allergies; prevention is managing the environment and gentle nasal care.
- Allergic Rhinitis : Allergic reaction in kids to pollen, dust or pet dander, symptoms are sneezing and runny nose; management is identifying and avoiding the allergen.
- Deviated Septum : Congenital or due to injury, this condition misaligns the nasal passages causing breathing difficulties and frequent sinus infections, severe cases may require surgery.
- Childhood Asthma : Although a lung condition, asthma affects the upper airways and can overlap with ENT symptoms, needs ENT and pediatrician coordination to manage triggers and respiratory infections.
- Runny Nose : Allergies or sinus issues.
- Facial Nerve Palsy : Nerve that controls one side of the face, affects the nose area and causes asymmetry.
- Polypoid Disease : Nasal polyps that block nasal passages and cause breathing problems.
- Pyriform Aperture Stenosis : Narrowing of the nasal entrance which can cause breathing difficulties in infants.
- Broken Nose : Broken bones in the nose (injury).
- Choanal Atresia : Blockage at the back of the nasal passage (bone or tissue).
- Ankyloglossia (Tongue-tie) : Short strip of skin under the tongue, affects feeding (oral cavity).
Throat-Related Conditions
- Tonsillitis : Frequent tonsil infections causing sore throats, difficulty swallowing and fever in children; persistent cases may need a tonsillectomy to feel better and be more comfortable.
- Pharyngitis : Viral most of the time but sometimes bacterial, this sore throat condition causes pain on swallowing, redness, fever and swollen lymph nodes; bacterial cases need antibiotics and early ENT consultation is recommended for proper diagnosis and treatment.
- Head & Neck Lumps And Bumps : Commonly benign swellings like swollen lymph nodes or cysts on a child’s head or neck; pediatric ENT assessment is necessary to determine if further testing or treatment like antibiotics or surgery is needed.
- Hemangiomas and Vascular Malformations : Benign blood vessel growths, hemangiomas appear as red marks on the skin and vascular malformations are present from birth and grow with the child; some need medication, laser or surgery if they affect function.
- Infectious Mononucleosis : A viral infection causing fever, sore throat and swollen glands in the neck. Spread through saliva.
- Lymphatic Malformations : Abnormal growths of the lymphatic system in the neck and throat area that can cause masses that can make breathing or swallowing hard.
- Respiratory Papilloma : Warts in the respiratory tract caused by HPV that affect the voice and breathing.
- Tracheotomy : A surgery to create an opening in the neck into the trachea to help breathing.
- Dysphagia : Swallowing difficulty that involves the throat and esophageal phase of swallowing.
- Hoarseness : A rough or raspy voice usually caused by irritation or injury to the vocal cords.
- Thyroidectomy : Removal of the thyroid gland, often for cancer, hyperthyroidism or large goiters.
- Velopharyngeal Dysfunction : Abnormalities of the soft palate and pharynx that can affect speech and cause hypernasality and unintelligible speech.
- Microtia : A congenital condition where the outer ear (auricle) is underdeveloped, which primarily affects the ear but can involve throat surgery for hearing improvement.
- Stridor : Noisy breathing due to blockage or narrowing in the throat or upper airway.
- Laryngomalacia : Floppy tissue above the vocal cords collapses inwards during inhalation causing stridor.
- Subglottic Stenosis : Narrowing of the airway below the vocal cords, congenital or acquired.
- Subglottic Hemangioma:Benign tumour in the subglottic area causing airway obstruction.
- Laryngeal Cleft : Rare congenital gap in the larynx that extends into the trachea and causes swallowing and airway problems.
- Laryngotracheoesophageal Cleft : Gap between larynx, trachea and oesophagus.
- Congenital and Acquired Neck Masses : Tumors or growths in the neck that can be present at birth or develop due to various conditions.
- Cleft Lip and Palate : A common congenital facial deformity where there is a physical split or opening in the lip and/or the roof of the mouth.
- Tracheobronchomalacia : A condition where the tracheal and bronchial walls are weaker than normal, leading to collapse of the airway when breathing.
- Tracheal Stenosis : A narrowing of the trachea that can be congenital or develop later due to other causes.
Causes Of Pediatric ENT Conditions
Immature Immune System
Your child’s immune system is still developing, making them more likely to catch infections. This can lead to frequent colds, ear infections, and throat problems.
Babies and toddlers haven’t built up immunity to many common viruses yet. They may catch 6-8 colds a year, compared to 2-3 for adults. Each cold can last up to two weeks.
As your little one grows, their immune system gets stronger. They’ll get sick less often. Until then, good hygiene helps. Teach them to wash their hands often and cover coughs and sneezes.
Immature Eustachian Tube
The Eustachian tube connects your child’s middle ear to the back of their throat. In kids, this tube is shorter and more horizontal than in adults.
This makes it easier for germs to travel from the nose and throat to the ears.
When your child has a cold, the tube can get blocked. This traps fluid in the middle ear, leading to ear infections.
About 5 in 6 children will have at least one ear infection by age 3.
As your child grows, their Eustachian tube will change position. This helps reduce ear problems.
Until then, treating colds quickly can help prevent ear infections.
Enlarged Tonsils And Adenoids
Tonsils and adenoids are part of your child’s immune system. They trap germs that enter through the mouth and nose. In some kids, these tissues can become enlarged.
Large tonsils and adenoids can cause:
- Breathing problems
- Snoring
- Sleep apnoea
- Frequent throat infections
Enlarged tonsils and adenoids are common among children aged 3 to 6. If the problem is severe, your doctor might suggest removing them.
Nose Allergy Or "Sensitive Nose"
Allergies can cause ongoing nose and throat issues in children.
Common triggers include:
- Dust mites
- Pet dander
- Pollen
- Mould
Symptoms of nose allergies include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Itchy eyes and nose
About 40% of children have allergies. They often start between ages 3 and 5. Avoiding triggers and using medicine can help manage symptoms.
If your child has frequent ENT problems, talk to your doctor. They can help find the cause and suggest treatments.
Main Pediatric ENT Treatments Offered By Nuffield ENT
Kids Ear-Related Treatments
Cochlear Implants
Hearing Aids
Bone Conduction
Kids Nose-Related Treatments
Sleep Studies
Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)
Airway evaluations
Adenoidectomy
Kids Throat-Related Treatments
Vocal Cord Surgery
Tonsillectomy
Tongue Tie Release
Speech Therapy
Speech therapy is for kids who have speech and language disorders. Therapists work with kids to improve pronunciation, understanding and use of language and correct speech impediments. This tailored approach helps with better communication skills so kids can interact more effectively in school and daily life.
Pediatric Airway Disorders
Allergy testing and treatment
Other Pediatric ENT Treatments
Ear-Related Treatments
- Microlaryngobronchoscopy (MLB):A camera to look at the larynx, trachea and bronchi to detect and treat airway obstructions or abnormalities.
- Ear Pinning (Pinnaplasty): For children with protruding ears, this cosmetic surgery can boost self-confidence. It’s a simple procedure that reshapes the ears to sit closer to the head.
- Bone Anchored Hearing Aids (BAHA):A treatment where a bone anchored hearing aid is implanted to improve hearing by stimulating the inner ear bones.
- Ear Canal Atresia Management:Treatment for absence or closure of the ear canal to restore hearing.
- Auricular Reconstruction and Otoplasty: Surgical reshaping or reconstruction of the ear for cosmetic or functional reasons.
- Endoscopic Tympanomastoidectomy:Minimally invasive procedure to treat infections or conditions in the middle ear and mastoid.
- Open Tympanomastoidectomy: More invasive procedure to treat chronic ear infections and cholesteatoma by accessing the mastoid bone.
- Ossicular Chain Reconstruction:Surgery to repair or replace the tiny bones of the middle ear to improve hearing.
Nose-Related Treatments
- Esophagoscopy :An esophagoscope to look at the esophagus to detect and treat strictures or foreign bodies.
- Pre-auricular sinus excision:A surgical procedure to remove a small pit located near the front of the ear.
- Paediatric Rhinology:Allergies and sinusitis in children.
- Drug Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE):Sleep endoscopy to diagnose breathing problems.
- Nasal Surgeries to Relieve OSA: Nasal surgery to remove obstructions causing OSA.
- Intranasal steroid sprays such as Nasonex or Avamys: Commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation and treat symptoms of nasal allergies.
Bone Conduction
- Supraglottoplasty:Surgery to reshape the supraglottis (upper part of the larynx above the vocal cords) to treat laryngomalacia by correcting floppy supraglottic structures. Larygnomalacia is a condition where soft, immature cartilage of the larynx collapses inward during inhalation, causing airway obstruction and noisy breathing in infants.
- Laryngeal cleft repair:Surgery to close a laryngeal cleft, an opening between the larynx and esophagus that can affect swallowing and breathing.
- Transoral resection of recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP):Surgical removal of benign tumours caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) in the throat that obstruct the airway.
- Laryngotracheoplasty:Reconstruction of the larynx and trachea to widen the airway and breathe.
- Trachea resection and anastomosis:Removal of a section of the trachea and reconnection to treat severe tracheal damage or constriction.
- Tracheostomy:An opening in the neck into the trachea to breathe through when the normal route of breathing is blocked or reduced.
- Voice analysis and stroboscopy:Tools to assess voice function and see vocal cord vibrations to diagnose voice disorders.
- Vocal fold injection for vocal fold palsy:Injection of material into the vocal cords to treat vocal fold paralysis or weakness to improve voice and swallowing.
- Recurrent laryngeal nerve anastomosis for vocal fold palsy:Surgery to reconnect the severed or damaged recurrent laryngeal nerve to restore vocal fold function.
- Adenotonsillectomy : Removal of the adenoids and tonsils to treat chronic infections or sleep breathing problems.
- Thyroidectomy : Removal of all or part of the thyroid gland to treat thyroid cancer, large goitres or hyperthyroidism.
- Parotidectomy : Removal of the parotid gland due to tumours.
- Sialendoscopy : Minimally invasive procedure to remove obstructions such as stones from the salivary gland ducts.
- Paediatric Broncho-oesophagology : Obstructions and congenital anomalies in the bronchi and oesophagus in children.
How Are Pediatric ENT Conditions Diagnosed?
FEES (Functional Endoscopic Evaluation Of Swallowing)
FEES is a test that looks at how your child swallows. A small camera goes through the nose to see the throat.
This test shows if food or drink goes into the lungs instead of the stomach.
The doctor will ask your child to eat different foods and drinks. They watch how your child swallows on a screen.
This helps spot any problems.
FEES is quick and doesn’t need special prep. It’s safe and doesn’t use X-rays. Your child can eat normally right after the test.
Aspiration Management
Aspiration is when food or drink goes into the lungs. This can cause breathing problems or infections.
Your doctor will check for signs of aspiration during meals.
They might use special tests like X-rays or FEES. These show if your child is aspirating.
The doctor will then make a plan to help. This might include:
- Changes in food texture
- Special feeding positions
- Therapy to improve swallowing
The goal is to keep your child safe while eating and drinking.
Hearing Test
Hearing tests check how well your child can hear. There are different types of tests for different ages.
For babies, the doctor might use a test called OAE (otoacoustic emissions). This checks how the inner ear responds to sound.
Another test, ABR, looks at how the brain reacts to sounds.
Older children might have a test where they raise their hand when they hear a beep. Or they might play a game where they move toys when they hear sounds.
These tests help find any hearing loss early. This is key for your child’s speech and learning.
Nasoendoscopy
Nasoendoscopy uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera. It goes through the nose to look at the throat and voice box.
This test helps check for:
- Breathing problems
- Voice issues
- Swallowing difficulties
The doctor can see if there are any growths or blockages. They might spray a numbing medicine in the nose first. This makes it more comfy for your child.
The test is quick, usually taking about 5 minutes. Your child can go back to normal activities right after.
Gentle Removal Of Ear Wax Under Microscope Guidance
Too much ear wax can cause hearing problems or ear pain. Removing it needs care, especially in children.
Doctors use a microscope to see clearly inside the ear.
They might use small tools or gentle suction to remove the wax. Sometimes, they use drops to soften the wax first.
This makes removal easier.
This method is safe and doesn’t hurt. It’s better than using cotton buds at home, which can push wax deeper into the ear.
Removal Of Foreign Bodies In The Ear, Nose And Throat
Kids sometimes put things in their ears, nose, or mouth that get stuck. Doctors have special tools to remove these objects safely.
For the ear, they might use tiny forceps or suction. In the nose, they could use special tweezers or a suction device. For the throat, they might need a scope to see and grab the object.
The doctor will choose the best method based on what and where the object is.
They’ll make sure your child is calm and comfy during the process.
Tonsillectomy And Adenoidectomy
These are surgeries to remove tonsils (small glands in the back of the throat that help fight infection) and adenoids (tissue high in the throat behind the nose and roof of the mouth, aiding immune response). Doctors might suggest this if your child has:
- Frequent throat infections
- Breathing problems during sleep
- Trouble swallowing
Before surgery, your child will have tests to check their health.
The doctor will explain what will happen and answer your questions.
The surgery is done under general anaesthesia. It usually takes about an hour. Your child will need to rest at home for about a week after.
Myringotomy And Grommet Tube Insertion
This procedure helps children with frequent ear infections or fluid build-up.
The doctor makes a tiny cut in the eardrum and puts it in a small tube.
The tube helps air get into the middle ear. This reduces infections and improves hearing.
The procedure is quick, usually taking about 15 minutes.
Your child will be asleep during the surgery. They can often go home the same day. The tubes usually fall out on their own after 6-18 months.
Pediatric ENT Procedure
Before The Procedure
Before a pediatric ENT procedure, you’ll meet with the specialist to discuss your child’s condition. They’ll explain the treatment plan and answer any questions you might have.
It’s important to share your child’s medical history and current medications.
The doctor may order tests like hearing assessments or imaging scans. These help create a tailored approach for your child’s needs.
You’ll receive instructions on preparing your child for the procedure. This often includes fasting guidelines and what to bring on the day.
It’s a good idea to explain the process to your child in simple terms to ease any worries they may have.
During The Procedure
On the day of the procedure, you’ll arrive at the hospital or clinic. The medical team will check your child’s vitals and get them ready.
Common pediatric ENT procedures include:
- Tonsillectomy (removing tonsils)
- Ear tube insertion
- Adenoidectomy (removing adenoids)
Most procedures use general anaesthesia to keep your child comfortable.
The surgeon will perform the operation using specialised tools suited for children.
The length of the procedure varies depending on its complexity. You’ll be updated on your child’s progress throughout.
After The Procedure
After the surgery, your child will be taken to a recovery area. The medical team will monitor them closely as they wake up from anaesthesia.
You’ll receive care instructions for home. These include:
- Pain management tips
- Dietary guidelines
- Activity restrictions
- Follow-up appointment details
It’s normal for children to feel groggy or upset after surgery. Comfort and reassure them as they recover.
Watch for signs of complications like fever or excessive bleeding. Contact your doctor if you have any concerns.
Most children bounce back quickly from ENT procedures. With proper care, they’ll soon return to their normal activities.
Pediatric ENT Risks
Minor infection: In rare cases, your child could develop a minor infection from the examination tools. This risk is very low, as clinics follow strict hygiene practices.
Temporary reaction to medications: Some children may have a temporary reaction to any medications prescribed. Keep an eye out for signs of allergies or unusual side effects.
Pediatric ENT Complications
Hearing loss:
Gradual hearing loss can occur after ear surgery. Get your child’s hearing checked regularly to manage this complication.
Scar tissue:
Altered smell or taste:
Facial nerve damage:
Growth issues:
Cost Of Pediatric ENT Treatments In Singapore
Ear ENT Treatments
- Cochlear Implants: SGD 30,000 to SGD 50,000 per implant. This includes the device, surgery and initial rehab sessions.
- Hearing Aids:SGD 1,000 to SGD 5,000 per device. Depends on technology and features.
- Bone Conduction Devices (such as BAHA):Costs generally range from SGD 3,000 to SGD 10,000, depending on the specific device and installation requirements.
Nose ENT Treatments
- Sleep Studies:SGD 1,200 to SGD 2,500. Depends on complexity and type of monitoring.
- Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS): SGD 5,000 to SGD 10,000. Depends on complexity of surgery.
- Airway Evaluations : SGD 500 to SGD 1,500. Depends on tests done.
Throat ENT Treatments
- Vocal Cord Surgery:Typically ranges from SGD 4,000 to SGD 8,000 depending on the complexity of the procedure.
- Tonsillectomy : SGD 3,500 to SGD 6,000 (surgical and hospitalisation fees)
- Tongue-Tie Release:SGD 500 to SGD 1,200. Includes consultation and follow-up.
- Adenoidectomy:SGD 3,500 to SGD 6,000 (hospital and anaesthesia fees included)
General ENT Treatments
- Speech Therapy : SGD 100 to SGD 250 per session. Depends on frequency and duration of sessions.
- Allergy Testing and Treatment : SGD 200 to SGD 400 for initial testing. Ongoing treatment (immunotherapy) varies depending on duration and type of allergens.
These prices may seem steep, but remember that they often include:
- Surgeon’s fees
- Anaesthesia
- Hospital stay
- Follow-up visits
Some medical insurance plans cover pediatric ENT procedures. It’s a good idea to check with your provider about what’s included in your policy. This can help you plan for any out-of-pocket expenses.
While cost is important, the quality of care should be your top priority. Pediatric ENT specialists in Singapore are known for their expertise and use of advanced equipment. This means your child will receive top-notch care, giving you peace of mind.
Are There Subsidies For Pediatric ENT In Singapore?
Payment Options at Nuffield ENT
- Cash
- NETS
- Bank transfer
- All major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex)
- Child Development Account (CDA) Baby Bonus
- Integrated Shield Plans: These plans cover hospitalisation in private hospitals and may have higher limits for in-hospital and out-patient follow-ups.
- Corporate Insurance: Many employers provide health insurance that covers ENT treatments. At Nuffield, we are partnered with several providers like Parkway Shenton, Allianz Care, CIGNA*, Bupa, AETNA and UnitedHealthcare Global (UHCG). Some plans allow for direct billing and possibly cashless so you don’t have to pay a dime for covered services.
Why Choose Nuffield ENT For Pediatric ENT?
Preventing Pediatric ENT Conditions
Stay Vaccinated : Timely vaccination is key to protecting your child from diseases that can lead to ENT infections. Vaccines for influenza, measles, mumps and rubella are especially important to prevent these diseases and its complications.
Practice Good Hygiene : Many ear, nose and throat conditions come from viruses and bacteria in dirty environments. Teach your child to wash their hands with soap and water regularly especially before eating and to cover their mouth when they cough or sneeze to protect their health and prevent the spread of these infections.
Know and Manage Your Child’s Allergies : Allergic reactions like rhinitis and sinusitis can be caused by allergens like dust, pollen, mold or pet dander. By knowing what triggers your child’s allergies and minimising their exposure to these substances, you can manage their symptoms better and prevent the condition from getting worse.
Live Healthy : In addition to good hygiene, your child’s overall lifestyle and diet also plays a big role in preventing ENT issues and reducing doctor’s visits. Make sure your child eats a balanced diet, drinks plenty of water and gets enough sleep to keep their immune system strong.
Take Care of Your Child’s Ears : Dirt and earwax accumulation can block the ears and cause bacterial growth which can lead to infections. Gently clean your child’s ears with a damp soft cloth to remove any debris. Do not use cotton swabs or any objects inside their ears as these can damage the eardrum or push the wax deeper. Consult an ENT specialist for proper earwax removal methods or for recommended drops. Also, protect your child’s hearing by keeping them away from loud noises. A good rule to follow is if you need to raise your voice to be heard over the noise, it’s loud enough to be harmful to your child’s ears.
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FAQs
What can I expect from my first ENT specialist visit?
Your child will have a thorough exam of their ears, nose, and throat. The doctor will ask about symptoms and medical history. They may use special tools to look inside the nose and ears.
How do I prepare my child for the first visit to the ENT clinic?
Explain what will happen in simple terms. Bring your child’s medical records and a list of current medicines. Write down any questions you have beforehand. Bring a favourite toy for comfort.
Are children's ENT conditions serious?
Most are not serious and can be treated easily. Some conditions, like chronic ear infections, may need ongoing care. Your doctor will explain the severity and treatment options for your child’s specific case.
What increases the risks of children's ENT conditions?
Factors include exposure to smoke, allergies, family history of ENT issues, and frequent colds. Bottle-feeding whilst lying down can also increase ear infection risk in babies.