An ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist is a doctor who treats patients of all ages with medical problems related to the head and neck. The field is complex since this area of the body involves a large number of nerves and various structures.
People may visit an ENT specialist if they are not improving with treatment for an earache or sinus infection, if they have a severe or complex issue or if their primary care or urgent care physician refers them.
Some issues an ENT will treat are:
- Ear issues – ear infection, hearing loss
- Nose issues – loss of smell, allergies, sinus issues, nose bleeds
- Breathing issues – difficulty breathing at rest or during exercise
- Sleep apnea – snoring or stopping breathing during sleep
- Throat issues – difficulty swallowing
- Voice issues – change in the voice, hoarseness
- Lumps and bumps on the neck and sores in the mouth
- Cancer
Common pediatric ENT issues
Common pediatric ENT issues include hearing loss, ear infections, snoring, tonsillitis and foreign object obstruction. Hearing loss in children is often treated by ENT doctors, particularly when caused by fluid buildup behind the eardrum, which can occur after illnesses, flying or ear infections. Symptoms may include ear drainage or pain. Additionally, sudden hearing loss, resembling a speaker going out, may occur due to a virus or small ear tumor.
Children are prone to ear infections due to frequent colds and their developing eustachian tubes. Snoring in children is also common and can disrupt the entire household. Tonsil infections or recurring tonsillitis are other frequent pediatric ENT problems. ENT doctors often encounter children who have inserted foreign objects into their ears or noses and require medical assistance for removal. ENT specialists are adept at diagnosing and effectively treating these issues.
When to see an ENT
The primary reason to see your doctor and/or an ENT specialist is when your child experiences a change that is unusual. For example, contact an ENT specialist if your child has persistent hearing loss, ear drainage or pain, lumps or bumps on the neck, an enlarged lymph node, severe nosebleeds, blood while coughing, sleep apnea, excessive daytime tiredness, trouble breathing through the nose, frequent snoring, mouth breathing or difficulty getting enough air when exercising.
ENT surgery options
There are various treatment options for ENT issues, with surgery often delivering the desired outcome. Some of the most common ENT surgeries for children include:
- Inserting ear tubes: In young children who have been experiencing speech delays or recurring ear infections, the insertion of ear tubes can lead to improved hearing and speech development, and increased happiness.
- Removing tonsils and adenoids: This procedure can help improve breathing, sleeping and snoring issues in many children.
Quality of life impact
Hearing loss from ENT issues can profoundly affect children's development, learning and speech. It can hinder social interaction and lead to isolation. Recurring infections can cause frequent absences from school, resulting in children falling behind in their studies., and an impact on the ability to smell and taste, which is crucial for a person's sense of happiness. When ENT issues are treated and resolved, children's sensory experiences and communication improve, significantly enhancing their quality of life.
The ENT physicians at Endeavor Health excel in treating pediatric and adult ENT issues, enhancing breathing, sleep, social interaction and overall quality of life. If you or your children have any ENT signs or symptoms, schedule a visit today. Visit us online or call (331) 221-9004.
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