Ear, nose, throat (ENT)
ENT (ear, nose and throat) issues range from ear infection with discharge and blockages, to snotty noses, enlarged adenoids, blocked or noisy breathing, sleep apnoea, recurrent sore throats and tonsillitis. Careful observation and diagnosis, often in collaboration with our multi-disciplinary team, ensures optimal treatment for your child.
The first step is for your child to visit a paediatrician, who will examine your child and will be your guide during the process of diagnosis and treatment with follow-up consultations to ensure treatment is effective.
Most diagnostic testing can be done in the consulting room. Laboratory tests may be needed, e.g. to confirm an ear infection (such as acute otitis media, acute otitis externa, or glue ear). Occasionally specific tests are recommended, for instance to assess hearing. Allergy testing may be indicated if the paediatrican feels this could be useful for your child.
Medical treatment may be necessary, for instance to combat infection. For blocked ears, the paediatrician may use microsuction to remove excess wax.
Surgical treatment is sometimes needed. A small number of children benefit from the use of grommets, which can be easily fitted to improve hearing. When constant nasal discharge is an issue, an adenoidectomy (removal of the swellings/glands at the back of the nose) may be very effective. Tonsillectomy may be considered for tonsil removal in a small number of cases (e.g. where repeated infection means missing school for prolonged periods).
Complementary therapies are often used in conjunction with paediatric guidance, and in some cases of recurrent infection can bring excellent results. Homeopathy, for example, may be very effective to reduce the frequency of infections and to help boost immunity. It is common for families to work closely with acupuncturists or osteopaths. Practical nutritional advice may be very useful. Our nutritionists are expert in reducing some symptoms and probiotics are beneficial when antibiotics are needed.
Emotional support may be valuable for you as a family, particularly if problems are prolonged or recurrent. If emotional or relationship issues contibute to the picture, time with a family therapist or counsellor may be enormously helpful.
