Blog

Children often experience ear, nose and throat problems due to the immaturity of the immune system and contact with microorganisms in daycare, school or play areas.

What are the most common ENT problems that children face?

1) Otitis

Otitis is the inflammation of the ear, usually of bacterial, viral or fungal etiology and is distinguished in:

External otitis: Inflammation of the external auditory canal.

Acute otitis media: Inflammation of the middle ear (cavity between the eardrum and the inner ear), with symptoms such as pain, fever and reduced hearing.

Secretory otitis: Fluid accumulation in the middle ear, without severe symptoms, which can cause hearing loss and a feeling of fullness.

2) Pharyngitis

It is the inflammation of the pharynx and tonsils, which is usually caused by viruses or bacteria. Symptoms include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever and swollen tonsils. In severe cases, antibiotic treatment or even tonsillectomy may be necessary.

3) Allergic Rhinitis

It refers to inflammation of the nasal mucosa caused by allergens, such as pollen, dust and pets. Symptoms include a watery runny nose, sneezing, itching and nasal congestion. It can be associated with other allergic conditions such as asthma.

4) Nasal Infections

Nasal infections are usually caused by viruses or bacteria. They involve inflammation of the inner part of the nose and the cavities around the nose, such as the sinuses. A runny nose, nasal congestion, and sneezing occur, which may be accompanied by fever, facial pain, headache, and cough.

5) Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is mainly divided into sensorineural and conductive. Sensorineural hearing loss occurs when the inner ear (cochlea) or auditory nerve is damaged and is permanent. Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound waves cannot reach the inner ear. This can be due to wax buildup, fluid in the ear, a perforated eardrum, cholesteatoma, otosclerosis, etc. It is often temporary and can be corrected with treatment or surgery.

6) Obstructive Sleep Apnea

In this condition, breathing is interrupted during sleep due to obstruction of the airways. Symptoms include snoring, restless sleep, and daytime sleepiness. It is often caused by enlarged tonsils or adenoids and may require surgery. Obstructive apnea has serious effects on the physical and psychological development of children. Children with obstructive apnea may experience irritability, aggression, and difficulty concentrating. Lack of quality sleep can affect learning ability and academic performance. Chronic lack of oxygen can affect children’s development. Poor sleep quality can reduce the immune system’s ability to fight infections.

7) Nosebleeds

It is usually caused by dry air, injury, or nasal infections. In most cases, it stops on its own and is not serious. Parents can help children press their nostrils against the soft spot and tilt their heads slightly forward to stop the bleeding. If nosebleeds are frequent or prolonged, medical advice should be sought.

Why is preventive screening important?

It is vital for early detection and treatment of these conditions. Regular visits to the pediatrician or pediatric ENT can help identify problems before they develop into serious conditions.

How can parents help prevent it?

Educating children on good hygiene practices, such as frequent hand washing and avoiding contact with people who have symptoms of infection, can reduce the risk of infections.

Avoiding smoking in the home helps reduce irritation to children’s respiratory systems and reduces the risk of respiratory problems.

Regular vaccinations are important for disease prevention.

Preventive hearing screening begins in the first month of life and continues into preschool and school age. Hearing screening is mandatory in case of speech delay and learning difficulties.

ENT diseases occur frequently in children, but with information and attention, we can reduce their impact and ensure a healthy development!

Recognizing the important role of prevention and early diagnosis, and on the occasion of the start of the registration period for the new school year, the Athens Pediatric Center & the Inter-Balkan Medical Center of Thessaloniki, of the Medical Group of Athens, offer comprehensive “Back to school” preventive examination packages at preferential prices until October 31, 2024.