When Should I Bring my Child to an ENT Specialist?

Our ears, nose and throat function as one unit, with one part supporting the other to allow us to breathe, smell, taste, and hear properly, which is relatively crucial for a fully functioning body, our overall well-being and quality of life. However, because our ears, nose and throat (ENT) are connected, if we experience discomfort or disturbance in any one of these parts, we may also face problems with the others.

As adults, we are able to recognise signs and symptoms of an ENT problem immediately, but our children may not be able to do so. If left untreated, minor ENT issues may cause life-threatening conditions that cannot be reversed. This is why, as parents, it is important for you to pay attention to your children’s health and take them to a paediatric ENT specialist as soon as you notice any unusual signs or symptoms.

1. NosebleedsIt is common for children to suffer from nosebleeds, especially if they have the tendency to pick their noses. Furthermore, nosebleeds in children can be caused by a variety of other factors such as dry air or nasal allergies – these are issues that you don’t have to worry about. However, if your child suffers from nosebleeds frequently without any specific triggering event, you should take your child to a paediatric ENT specialist to get it checked and treated.
2. Hearing ProblemsAt times, children may have difficulty hearing if there is a buildup of excessive earwax in their ears. Other times, it could be as serious as a middle ear infection in children. If you notice your child having trouble hearing, or if you see the following signs and symptoms, you should bring your child in to get it checked by a paediatric ENT specialist.

   

   • Fluid coming out of the ears
   • Speech delay
   • Talking louder than normal and needed to be called multiple times
   • Tugging or pulling at the ear
   • Irritability
   • Severe headaches
   • Fever
3. Long-Lasting ColdsChildren are prone to coughs and colds because of their weak immune system and frequent exposure to other children at school. However, it isn’t normal for the cold to persist for weeks or occur multiple times a month; it could be a sign of another infection that needs to be diagnosed and treated by a paediatric ENT specialist.
4. Trouble Swallowing

   Sore throats can make it difficult to swallow foods or liquids, which isn’t a cause for concern if your child is suffering from a cold or fever. But if your child suddenly experiences trouble swallowing, along with signs and symptoms such as choking, drooling, coughing, vomiting, or a change in voice, do seek medical attention from a paediatric ENT specialist. It can signify something as simple as a reflux or something more serious in the airway..

5. SnoringExcessive snoring, restless sleep, and daytime lethargy are signs that snoring is an issue – your child may be suffering from sleep apnea. Snoring in children may also be caused by swollen tonsils, allergies, asthma, and other conditions, and they should be addressed by an ENT specialist.
6. Allergy and Sinus ProblemsWhether it is a seasonal allergy, a frequent runny nose, or a more severe sinus infection, your child’s allergies and sinuses can be causing uncomfortable symptoms that may be worse than what adults experience. Bring your child to the paediatric ENT if you spot signs of sinus problems.

On top of paying attention to the symptoms that your child is exhibiting, there are a few questions you should ask yourself regarding your child’s condition to determine whether a trip to the ENT specialist is necessary.

• Is it a recurring condition?
• Is it persistent?
• Does it affect your child’s quality of life?

If it is a recurring condition, if it persists for prolonged periods or if it affects your child’s life significantly, you should bring your child to see a paediatric ENT specialist in Singapore.

From minor issues to severe conditions, the team at Dr Jenica Yong’s will provide you with comprehensive care together with the use of evidence-based medicine to treat any ENT conditions. Contact our clinic to schedule your medical appointment today.