Are you concerned about your child’s hearing or frequent ear infections? We’re going to discuss the different ear problems ENT doctors treat in children and what to do if you suspect your child has one of these issues.

Ear Infections

Ear infections are one of the most common ear, nose, and throat problems that ENT doctors treat in children. Ear infections often occur due to a buildup of fluid in the middle of the ear, which is usually caused by viral or bacterial infections. Symptoms of ear infections in children may include ear pain, fever, difficulty hearing, and fluid draining from the ear. If left untreated, ear infections can cause permanent hearing loss or other complications, such as a hole in the eardrum or a cholesteatoma (an abnormal production of skin cells that damages structures of the ears including the hearing bones). To diagnose an ear infection, an ENT doctor will typically perform an exam using a lighted instrument called an otoscope to look into the ear canal and check for inflammation and fluid. Treatment for ear infections typically includes antibiotics and/or other medications to reduce inflammation and pain. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to drain the fluid or repair any damage to the eardrum.

Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can be a concerning issue in children. Common ENT problems that cause hearing loss in children include ear infections, birth defects of the temporal bone and cochlea, conductive hearing loss from persistent ear fluid, and recurrent middle ear infections (otitis media). ENT doctors provide a variety of treatments for hearing loss, such as tympanostomy tubes (ear tubes), hearing aids, cochlear implants, tympanoplasty, eardrum repair, and mastoidectomy. It is important for parents and caregivers to be aware of the potential signs of hearing loss in children so they can seek otolaryngologic evaluation. Early detection and treatment of hearing loss can help prevent further issues down the road. Since children are actively growing and learning, it is important to consider the possible speech or language problems that can be related to hearing loss. 

Swimmer’s Ear

Swimmer's ear, or otitis externa, is a common ear, nose, and throat problem that ENT doctors treat in children. It is an infection of the outer ear canal, caused by bacteria or fungi. Symptoms of swimmer's ear include itching, pain, and discharge. Treatment usually involves antibiotics or antifungal medications and can include the use of ear drops or warm compresses. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove the infected tissue. Parents should be aware of the signs and symptoms of swimmer's ear and contact their ENT doctor if they suspect their child may be affected. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent complications and reduce the risk of hearing loss.

Conclusion

ENT doctors treat a wide variety of ear, nose, and throat problems in children. Common problems in the ear include middle ear infections, hearing loss, Swimmer’s ear. Otolaryngologists are also skilled in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the voice and speech, sinuses, tonsils, and allergies. You can learn more about these conditions and more in future blog posts. It is important for parents and caregivers to be aware of these issues and to seek the help of an ENT doctor if any of these issues arise.

ENT Care Centers is committed to provide your child the most compassionate pediatric ear care. Whether your child needs a hearing test or ear tubes, our ENT doctors care for kids of any age. Call us at (502) 837-7838 or visit our website to visit one of our Ear, Nose & Throat Doctors in and around Louisville, KY and southern Indiana. You are sure to receive the compassionate care you and your family deserve.