Ear, Nose and Throat Services

An ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist, also known as an otolaryngologist, diagnoses and treats medical conditions affecting the ears, nose, throat, head, and neck. ENT specialists provide both medical and surgical care for children and adults.

Some of the most common reasons children are referred to an ENT include:

• Recurrent ear infections
• Hearing concerns
• Snoring and sleep-disordered breathing
• Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
• Frequent nosebleeds
• Chronic nasal congestion or allergies

Children are more prone to ear infections because their Eustachian tubes (the passageways that connect the middle ear to the back of the nose) are more horizontal than those of adults. This makes it easier for fluid to become trapped behind the eardrum, increasing the risk of infection.

As children grow, these tubes become more angled, allowing fluid to drain more effectively.

If your child experiences frequent ear infections or ongoing fluid behind the eardrum, it may be time to consult an ENT specialist. Persistent fluid can affect hearing and speech development.

An ENT can determine whether treatment options, such as ear tubes, may be beneficial.

Possible signs of hearing loss include:

• Delayed speech or language development
• Difficulty pronouncing words
• Not responding to their name
• Not turning toward sounds
• Frequently asking for repetition
• Difficulty following directions

Because hearing plays a critical role in learning and development, it’s important to have any concerns evaluated promptly.

Nosebleeds are very common in children. Common causes include:

• Dry air and low humidity
• Nose picking
• Irritation inside the nose
• Seasonal allergies

Children have delicate blood vessels near the front of the nose that can bleed easily when irritated.

If you have a nosebleed:

1. Sit upright and lean slightly forward.
2. Pinch the soft part of the nose (the nostrils) firmly.
3. Hold continuous pressure for 3–5 minutes.

Avoid placing tissues or other materials inside the nose, as they can disrupt healing when removed.

Allergy symptoms often include:

• Itchy or watery eyes
• Itchy nose or roof of the mouth
• Clear nasal drainage
• Persistent congestion

Colds and allergies can look similar, but if symptoms continue for several weeks or occur repeatedly, allergies may be the cause.

Not necessarily. While many experience seasonal allergies, others may have symptoms year-round depending on the triggers involved.

If your child snores regularly, appears to struggle to breathe while sleeping, or shows daytime symptoms such as hyperactivity, poor concentration, or excessive fatigue, an ENT evaluation can help determine whether treatment is needed.

Current guidelines generally recommend considering tonsil removal when a child experiences:

• Seven confirmed strep infections in one year, or
• Five confirmed infections per year for two consecutive years, or
• Three confirmed infections per year for three consecutive years

Your provider can help determine whether surgery is appropriate.

No. Cotton swabs can push earwax deeper into the ear canal, cause irritation, and even lead to injury.

Earwax is healthy and helps protect the ear canal by maintaining moisture and a natural balance of bacteria.

If you suspect your child has placed an object in their nose or ear, contact your healthcare provider or ENT specialist for evaluation.

In some cases, objects can become lodged and cause irritation, infection, foul odors, or breathing concerns.