Paediatric ENT Problems and Treatments
Tonsils
Tonsils are part of your child's immune system, but they can sometimes cause recurring infections or breathing difficulties during sleep. Tonsils may need to be removed to reduce infections, improve the airway, prevent peritonsillar abscess (quinsy), removal for histological examination to rule out sinister pathology, or for access to deeper structures. If your child suffers from frequent sore throats or loud snoring, a consultation and examination can provide clarity and treatment options. Options may include watchful waiting, antibiotics or surgery. We discuss the treatment options and agree on a individualised plan for each child.
Adenoids
Adenoids are small patches of tissue at the back of the nose that can cause mouth breathing and heavy snoring in children when enlarged, predispose to recurrent upper respiratory tract infections, or affect the Eustachian tubes leading to glue ear . Removing them often helps your child sleep more soundly and breathe easier through their nose. This simple procedure can significantly improve energy levels and overall wellbeing.They may also be removed to help with glue ear and recurrent infections.
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) involves repeated pauses in breathing during sleep, and in children is often (not always) caused by enlarged tonsils or adenoids. This leads to disturbed sleep, daytime tiredness and sleepiness, and if left untreated for a long period of time can lead to changes in the heart and lungs which are very difficult to reverse. Removing enlarged tonsils and adenoids solves the problem in the majority of children. If your child snores loudly or seems to struggle for breath at night, seeking specialist advice can help ensure they get the restful sleep they need for healthy development and prevent complications.
Glue Ear
Glue ear or Otitis Media with Effusion (OME) occurs when fluid builds up in the middle ear, This is often related to poor Eustachian tube dysfunction, which may be linked to enlarged adenoids or rhinosinusitis. The fluid is initially thin but gets thicker and glue-like over time hence the term "glue ear". The middle ear fluid affects hearing and speech, leads to recurrent infections, may affect balance and behaviour, and may damage the ear drum leading to a thin retracted ear drum. Treatment options include watchful waiting, optimizing the nose, dealing with enlarged adenoids, and insertion of ventilation tubes. Balloon Eustachian Tuboplasty is another option for adults although less frequently used for children. Consultation, examination and hearing tests allows us to make the correct diagnosis and agree on the most appropriate treatment plan.
Ear Infections (Acute Otitis Media)
Middle ear infections are a frequent part of childhood, often causing pain and high fever after a common cold. They may be viral or bacterial. While many cases resolve without intervention, expert assessment is important if symptoms are severe or persistent. Middle ear infections can lead to various complications including perforation, damage to hearing, and spread of infection to nearby structures, so prompt assessment and care is important for severe or recurrent infections.
Rhinosinusitis
If your child suffers from persistent sneezing, nasal itching, runny nose, nasal obstruction or congestion, and catarrh and postnasal drip, it may be a sign of rhinitis. Rhinitis may be allergic or non-allergic. Nasal inflammation (rhinitis) can lead to sinusitis, with facial pain and pressure, fever, headache, discoloured nasal discharge and impaired sense of smell. We offer comprehensive assessment including consultation, nasendoscopy and allergy tests to diagnose the problem and tailored treatments to help manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.