An otolaryngologist, also known as an ear, nose, and throat specialist, can offer care to treat conditions that often affect these areas of the body. Pediatric otolaryngology is a branch of otolaryngology that involves treating children for a variety of bacterial or viral illnesses that affect the ears, nose, and throat. A knowledgeable pediatric ENT doctor understands how a child's system is different than an adult's and can offer personalized treatments that are best suited to address the needs of young patients.
A Proper Diagnosis
Common childhood illnesses that affect the ears, nose, and throat can usually be treated by pediatricians, but pediatric otolaryngology is often needed to treat conditions that are severe, chronic, or difficult to diagnose. Before treatment is prescribed, the pediatric ENT doctor can perform diagnostic testing to make an accurate diagnosis. Samples are often taken and sent to a laboratory to confirm the diagnosis. Special equipment that can offer an in-depth look at the condition that may be affecting the child can also be used to make an accurate diagnosis. The types of diagnostic tests that pediatric ENT doctors use often include:
Prescribe Medications
After a diagnosis is confirmed, the condition may be treatable with prescription medication. Pediatric otolaryngologists are able to prescribe a wide range of antibiotics to treat bacterial infections. Medications can be additionally prescribed to alleviate symptoms caused by viral illnesses.
Treatment of Breathing Difficulties
Parents often take their children to pediatric otolaryngology specialists to receive treatment for conditions that interfere with normal, healthy breathing. A pediatric ENT doctor can prescribe an inhaler to a child who suffers from asthma. A prescription nose spray may also be given to help facilitate better breathing. Children who struggle to breathe at night while sleeping often benefit from obstructive sleep apnea treatment that a qualified pediatric ENT doctor can administer.
Surgical Treatments Available
When surgery is needed on the ears, nose, or throat, a pediatric ENT doctor can perform the procedure while taking extra precautions to prevent causing harm to children's fragile systems. Quite often, surgery is the only solution to problems that are caused by structural abnormalities in the ear, nose, or throat region. Surgical procedures that pediatric otolaryngologists commonly perform include:
Pediatric otolaryngology has revolutionized the way that children receive treatment for their ear, nose, or throat conditions. Parents who are concerned about their children's health in these areas can schedule an appointment with a pediatric ENT doctor to get the proper care.
Share22 February 2021
If breathing has become an issue for you, rest assured--you aren't alone. Millions of Americans struggle to breathe in a healthy way, which can create a lot of problems when it comes to doing other things, such as exercising or sleeping in a healthy way. Fortunately, there are doctors who specialize in the nose and throat, clearing passages and helping patients to retain their level of comfort. On this blog, you will find great information about ear, nose, and throat therapies, because you never know what you might encounter tomorrow. Check out these posts to find out great things about medical care.