Does your child frequently get strep or a sore throat? Are you concerned about a lump in their neck? ENT Care Centers has the experts that can help with these issues, so let’s learn about the different throat and neck problems ENT doctors treat in children.

Tonsillitis and Adenoiditis

Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors treat a wide range of common issues in children, including tonsillitis and adenoiditis. Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils, which are located at the back of the throat. Symptoms of tonsillitis may include sore throat, fever, swollen glands, and difficulty swallowing. Adenoiditis is an inflammation of the adenoid glands located behind the nose and above the roof of the mouth. Symptoms of adenoiditis may include difficulty breathing through the nose, snoring, ear infections, and frequent sinus infections.

Treatment for tonsillitis and adenoiditis typically involves taking antibiotics or antiviral medications to reduce the infection. If these treatments don't work, an ENT doctor may recommend a tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy to remove the affected glands. This can help reduce the risk of recurrent infections and improve breathing and hearing. ENT doctors also specialize in treating birth defects of the head and neck, hearing loss, sinus infections, sleep apnea, allergies, and other conditions that affect children's ears, nose, and throat.

Voice Problems in Children

Voice problems in children are common and can be caused by a variety of different issues. Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors treat several common conditions in children that can cause voice problems, including ear infections, throat infections, hearing loss, balance disorders, chronic ear infections, cleft lip and palate problems, head and neck masses, and vocal cord dysfunction. ENT doctors use advanced technology and knowledge to diagnose and treat these issues and make sure that children receive the best care possible. Treatment may include medication, surgery, or therapy to address the underlying cause of the voice problem. It is important to seek medical attention if you notice any changes in your child's voice or if they have difficulty speaking or understanding language. Early diagnosis and treatment can help ensure that your child's voice remains healthy.

Laryngomalacia and Subglottic Stenosis

The ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors treat a variety of conditions in children, but some of the more concerning problems of the throat include laryngomalacia and subglottic stenosis. Laryngomalacia is a condition where the soft tissue of the larynx collapses inward during breathing, causing noisy breathing (stridor). Subglottic stenosis is a narrowing of the airway below the vocal cords, which can cause difficulty breathing.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) in Children

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a serious sleep disorder that affects children, causing them to stop breathing for short periods of time during sleep. Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors are specially trained to diagnose and treat OSA in children. ENT doctors can diagnose OSA by examining the child’s throat, nose and mouth to check for enlarged tonsils and adenoids. They can also use sleep studies to measure the child’s breathing during sleep.

Treatment for OSA often begins with non-surgical options such as lifestyle changes, weight loss and nasal sprays. If these methods do not work, then an ENT doctor may recommend surgery to remove the enlarged tonsils and adenoids. This procedure is called an adenotonsillectomy and is often successful in improving OSA symptoms in children.

ENT doctors also treat other conditions that can contribute to OSA, such as asthma or allergies. They can also recommend treatment such as CPAP machines or oral appliances to help keep the airways open during sleep.

If your child has symptoms of OSA, it is important to talk to your doctor. An otolaryngologist can help you determine if your child has OSA related to enlarged tonsils and provide a recommendation whether or not adenotonsillectomy is the right treatment plan.

Neck Masses in Children

Neck masses in children can be caused by a number of different conditions. They can range from cysts and infections to cancerous tumors. ENT doctors can diagnose and treat neck masses in children by using imaging studies, blood tests, and a biopsy. Treatment options will depend on the underlying cause and may include antibiotics, surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. It is important to seek medical attention if you notice a lump or mass on your child’s neck so that it can be properly diagnosed and treated.

Conclusion

ENT doctors treat a wide variety of ear, nose, and throat problems in children. Common problems include ear infections, throat infections, hearing loss, sinus issues, and tinnitus. ENT doctors are also skilled in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the voice and speech, breathing, and sleep. It is important for primary care physicians 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, nose, and throat care. Our experienced ENT doctors provide the highest quality 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 an expert care you and your family deserve.