Often, children aged 2 and above tend to be more vulnerable to severe Ear, Nose, Throat (ENT) problems. This is because many structures within their ENT region are still immature and prone to dysfunction. The disorders are prevalent when their immune systems and bodies are still in the development process. Even if significant symptoms are shown, they may still be neglected as children are unable to verbally express their condition. As a result, more severe infections occur. Here are some common ENT conditions faced by children and how they can be treated by a paediatrics ENT doctor.
1. Allergies
Allergies in children usually result from an abnormal immune system reaction to harmless elements including medications, food and dust mites. In some cases, those allergies are hereditary. Your child may suffer dry eyes and runny nose when they come into contact with certain allergens in the air. Under worse circumstances, allergies may cause bruises under the eyes of children, or a crease on their noses. Be aware and immediately bring your child to see a doctor if they are showing any of the following symptoms:
Treatments:
2. Chronic cough
Children coughing is a common symptom of an upper respiratory viral or bacterial infection. It is temporary and usually subsides within one to two weeks. Nonetheless, if a cough persists at least four weeks and causes significant discomfort for the child, then it is diagnosed as a chronic cough. It is advisable to consult with our ENT doctors from Mount Elizabeth or other clinics to determine the severity of the infection.
Listed below are some of the causes of chronic coughs in children:
Treatments:
3. Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when a recurrent ‘blockage’ of the upper airway is present during sleep, reducing airflow to the lungs and causing sleep disruption. The disorder often manifests itself in one symptom, which is snoring. Some children snore but this does not mean they have obstructive sleep apnoea. Obesity and enlarged tonsils and/or adenoids are the two common causes of obstructive sleep apnea in children. Listed below are among the sleep apnea treatments offered in Singapore:
Treatments:
Learn more: Sleep Apnea: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatments
4. Nosebleeds
Children often like to scratch and pick at their noses. These bad habits can cause nosebleeds due to excessive irritation inside the nasal passages. To ensure an effective treatment, an ENT doctor will first identify potential causes of recurring nosebleeds.
Treatments:
Source: betterfamilyhealth.org
5. Allergic Rhinitis
Another common ENT problem among kids is allergic rhinitis. Also known as hay fever, allergic rhinitis can be seasonal or year-round. There are outdoor and indoor allergens, as well as certain food that result in this chronic problem. Children with this ENT issue may suffer from nasal discharge, poor sleep quality, nasal congestion and other symptoms.
Treatments:
If your child is facing any of the ENT conditions above, do schedule an appointment with an ENT doctor immediately to get diagnosed. Paying close attention to ENT symptoms is crucial as they may develop into lifelong illnesses without the right treatment.
At ENT Surgeons, we provide reliable and effective treatment for ear, nose and throat problems such as sleep apnea, in Singapore. On top of that, we also address your concerns for certain head and neck issues. Call us today to find out more.
