Kids are no small adults — this is particularly true in otorhinolaryngology. Anatomy, immune system and disease progression differ significantly, which is why ENT symptoms in childhood special experience and a child-friendly approach require.

In this post, parents learn:

• Which ENT diseases are particularly common in children
• When waiting makes sense — and when not
• What a child-friendly ENT examination looks like
• What modern, gentle treatment options are available

Why pediatric ENT is a separate specialization

In the case of children, there are:

• narrower airways
• More sensitive mucous membranes
• More frequent infections
• Symptoms are often unspecific

In addition, children can often have symptoms Don't describe exactly. Experience, observation and a quiet, anxiety-free examination situation.

Common ENT diseases in childhood

1. Nasal congestion in children

Permanent nasal congestion is in children Not a harmless permanent state.

Common causes:

• enlarged pharyngeal tonsils (“polyps”)
• frequent infections
• allergies
• anatomical constrictions

Typical consequences:

• Mouth breathing
• snoring
• bad sleep
• concentration problems

2. Middle ear infection & tympanic effusion

Very common in toddlers and kindergarteners.

signs:

• earache
• fevers
• hearing loss
• Speech development delay in chronic cases

Not every middle ear infection needs antibiotics — But everyone needs a correct diagnosis.

3. Enlarged tonsils & frequent throat infections

Tonsils are part of the immune system — but they can cause problems themselves.

Typical notes:

• frequent sore throats
• swallowing problems
• nocturnal snoring
• Breathing pauses during sleep

A differentiated assessment is important before deciding on operational steps.

4. Snoring & breathing disorders during sleep

Snoring in children is Not always harmless.

Possible reasons:

• enlarged pharyngeal or palatine tonsils
• chronic nasal congestion
• allergies

If left untreated, this can lead to:

• daytime sleepiness
• behavioural problems
• learning problems

lead.

5. Hearing problems & language development

Good hearing is crucial for:

• language development
• learning
• social development

Even mild hearing loss can have long-term effects — a early clarification is therefore essential.

When should parents and their child see an ENT doctor?

An ENT specialist examination is useful for:

• frequent or long-lasting infections
• snoring or breathing in the mouth
• recurring ear pain
• Suspicion of hearing problems
• Speech development delay
• unilateral or unusual symptoms

Child-friendly diagnostics in pediatric ENT

A good pediatric ENT exam is:

• tranquil
• painless
• explained in an age-appropriate manner

Possible investigations:

• ear microscopy
• child-friendly hearing tests
• flexible nasal or throat endoscopy (if required)
• ultrasound

Objective is maximum informative value with minimum load.

Treatment — individual and gentle

Conservative therapy

Often sufficient for:

• infections
• minor inflammations
• allergic symptoms

Includes, for example:

• local therapies
• nasal washes
• targeted drugs
• Observation & follow-up

Operative therapy

Only when necessary and useful, e.g. in the case of:

• pronounced respiratory problems
• chronic middle ear problems
• significant impairment of sleep, hearing, or development

Modern pediatric ENT surgery is:

• sparing
• easy to plan
• sure

The role of parents

Parents are the most important observers.

Important notes:

• How does the child sleep?
• Does it breathe through the nose or mouth?
• Are there any common infections?
• Does the child respond well to speech?

This information is often crucial for diagnosis.

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