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Our little ones are susceptible to various health concerns, and their ears, nose, and throat (ENT) are no exception. These delicate areas can be breeding grounds for infections and discomfort. Here, we explore the 6 most common ENT problems in children, helping you navigate these situations with confidence.
Ear Infections (Acute Otitis Media)
Symptoms: Earache (pain in ear in younger children), fever, discharge from the ear, difficulty in sleeping, diminished hearing.
Cause: Bacteria or viruses often following a cold or allergies.
Treatment: Pain relievers as directed by expert ENT surgeon in Ghaziabad, antibiotics , decongestants, nasal drops, plenty of fluids, and warm compresses on the ear. Ear drops if ear discharge present.
Glue Ear (Otitis Media with Effusion)
Symptoms: Muffled hearing, difficulty understanding speech, frequent earaches (may not always be present), feeling of fullness in the ear.
Cause: Fluid buildup in the middle ear after an infection or allergy.
Treatment: Observation (fluid often clears on its own), decongestants (short-term use only), antihistamines (if allergies are suspected), and in some cases, ear tubes may be inserted by an ENT specialist in Ghaziabad to drain the fluid
Tonsillitis
Symptoms: Sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, white patches on the tonsils, bad breath.
Cause: Viral or bacterial infection.
Treatment: Pain relievers as directed by a doctor, plenty of fluids, gargling with warm salt water. Antibiotics are prescribed for bacterial infections. In severe cases, tonsillectomy (surgical removal) might be considered.
Sinusitis
Symptoms: Facial pain and pressure, especially around the eyes and forehead, runny or congested nose, thick green or yellow mucus, cough (often worse at night), fever, bad breath.
Cause: Viral infection or allergies leading to inflammation of the sinuses.
Treatment: Pain relievers that are prescribed by the doctor, nasal saline irrigation, steam inhalation, decongestants (short-term use only), and antihistamines (if allergies are suspected). Antibiotics might be prescribed for bacterial sinusitis.
Rhinitis (Runny or Stuffy Nose)
Symptoms: Runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, watery eyes, itchy throat (may be seasonal).
Cause: Viral infection (common cold), allergies (dust, pollen, pet dander).
Treatment: Plenty of fluids, rest, nasal saline irrigation, humidifier (cool mist), over-the-counter decongestants (short-term use only) or antihistamines (as directed by a doctor).
Croup
Symptoms: Barking cough (worse at night), hoarse voice, difficulty breathing (rapid, noisy breathing), fever.
Cause: Viral infection affecting the upper airway.
Treatment: Cool mist humidifier, sitting upright to ease breathing, over-the-counter fever reducers (as directed by a doctor). In severe cases, medical attention is crucial.
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for a speedy recovery and preventing complications. Consult with our experienced surgeons at ENT hospital in Ghaziabad if symptoms persist or worsen or if you have concerns. Not all coughs, runny noses, or earaches require antibiotics. Your doctor will determine the best course of treatment. Comforting measures like soothing throat tablets (for older children), and plenty of fluids can go a long way in helping your child feel better. By understanding these common ear nose and throat problems and their management strategies, you can be better prepared to address your child's concerns and ensure their journey to a healthy recovery is as smooth as possible.
We invite you to explore our official blog page and read the latest blogs shared by our doctors. You can book an appointment with our best ENT surgeon in Ghaziabad and ask all the questions you may have regarding your child’s health.
