Pediatric ENT Specialist Q&A

Ear, nose, and throat conditions are common in young children and a pediatric ENT will get you the accurate diagnosis you need to begin suitable treatment. Common conditions associated with ear, nose, and throat disorders include:
 
• Adenoid disease
• Deafness and/or hearing loss
• Deviated septum
• Ear infections (middle ear disease)
• Foreign objects lodged in the ear, nose, and airway.
• Nosebleeds
• Salivary control issues
• Sinusitis (sinus infection)
• Sleep apnea
• Stridor (high pitched breathing)
• Swallowing problems (dysphagia)
• Swimmer’s ear
• Tonsillitis (tonsil infection)
 
Pediatric ENTs are also knowledgeable and experienced in diagnosing and treating more complex medical issues affecting your child.

ENT problems are any kind of disturbance in and around the ears, nose, and throat therefor the symptoms can be many and varied. However, you can find a list of some of the most commonly experienced symptoms below:
 
• Airway issues
• Balance problems
• Coughing
• Dark circles under the eyes
• Difficulty breathing
• Ear noise (tinnitus)
• Ear pain
• Frequent throat clearing
• Hearing loss
• Inflamed tonsils and/or adenoids
• Lesions
• Loss of smell
• Loss of taste
• Mouth breathing
• Nasal congestion
• Nasal itching
• Nose bleeds
• Runny nose
• Sinus pressure
• Skin conditions
• Sleep apnea
• Sneezing
• Snoring
• Sore throat
• Thyroid mass
• Voice hoarseness
 
Due to the vast nature of ENT issues, it’s always best to consult a specialist if your child is experiencing disruptive, long-lasting, or recurring problems.

While all otolaryngologists (ENT specialists) have undergone four years of college, four years of medical school, and at least five years of specialized ENT training, pediatric ENT’s also undergo an additional 1-2 years of training specifically geared towards treating newborns, children, and teenagers.
 
A general ENT specialist that treats adults may also diagnose, treat, and perform surgery on children. However, pediatric ENT specialists are specially trained to deal with several unique physical, mental, and behavioural issues that may arise when treating younger patients.

During your first pediatric ENT appointment, you and your child will meet with your pediatric otolaryngologist in a comfortable and private room. Once the initial rapport has been established and everyone is feeling comfortable, the ENT doctor will then proceed with assessing your child’s health. This often includes asking about any symptoms your child is experiencing, a physical examination, and reviewing any test results that have come from other medical practitioners.
 
Once complete, the doctor may deliver you a diagnosis and/or treatment plan regarding your child’s condition. If additional testing is required, they will begin the process of coordinating that for a seamless transition.
 
The length of your child’s first clinical visit will take between 20-60 minutes depending on their medical background, the severity of their symptoms, and the complexity of their issue. It may take longer if your child requires diagnostic testing, such as x-ray, audiogram, or blood work.
 
It’s generally recommended that you arrive to your appointment 15 minutes early so that the staff can get you signed in and any necessary paperwork can be completed.
 
If you need assistance addressing the ENT symptoms that your little one is experiencing, contact our team of dedicated medical professionals at Southern ENT Associates. We provide the highest level and quality of care to address you child’s issues in a professional and timely manner. Connect with us today for more information about our ENT services or to book in for an appointment. We serve patients from Thibodaux LA, Houma LA, Raceland LA, Morgan City LA, New Iberia LA, Youngsville LA, and surrounding areas!