Infants' ear, nose, and throat (ENT) issues are common and critical to address early. Emphasizing the importance of early detection of common ENT problems in infants is crucial in ensuring effective management and care. Recognizing these issues promptly can lead to better health outcomes and prevent future complications as your child grows. Ear Infections: A Common ENT Problem in Infants Ear infections, particularly prevalent in infants, can lead to significant discomfort and distress for the child and their caregivers. Often characterized by inflammation and fluid buildup in the middle ear ..read more

Ear health plays a crucial role in a child's ability to effectively develop speech and language skills. The ears are not just organs for hearing; they are gateways through which children absorb the sounds of their environment, laying the foundation for learning language and communication.  Hearing problems or other ear-related conditions can hinder this vital process. Ear infections are prevalent in children and can lead to fluid buildup, affecting how sound is transmitted to the brain. When this interference is recurrent or prolonged, it can significantly impact a child’s ability to lea ..read more

If frequent ear infections, sinus problems, or other ear, nose, and throat issues are interfering with your child’s daily life, you may want to consider a consultation with a pediatric ENT. Taking some time to research a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating these types of conditions will help ensure you can meet your child’s needs effectively. Understanding Pediatric ENTs Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists are highly trained surgeons who perform procedures on delicate organs found in the ears, nose, and throat. Pediatric ENT specialists treat children ranging from newborns t ..read more

Ear infections in children often clear up on their own, and treatment may simply involve monitoring the problem and managing the pain with prescribed medication. However, some children are prone to persistent ear infections that can cause serious complications. In these cases, myringotomy tube placement may be recommended for treatment. How do ear infections in children happen? An ear infection occurs when there is inflammation in the middle ear. These infections are typically caused by bacteria growth from fluid buildup behind the eardrum. Children get middle ear infections more often than a ..read more

Hearing is more than a communication skill; it is a precious sense that helps us bond with others, share emotions, and comprehend our surroundings. Hearing also protects us by alerting us to potential threats or hazards. When a child loses their hearing, either partially or completely, there are multiple ways to treat it. Hearing aids are the most common treatment option for hearing loss, but they may not be effective for your child’s specific needs. Fortunately, there are several kid-friendly hearing aid alternatives that can improve your child’s hearing and overall quality of life. Speech/L ..read more

Pediatric hearing loss is a challenging diagnosis at any age and is a critical issue, as even mild hearing loss can significantly affect a child’s development. Hearing loss in children can be hereditary or caused by external factors after birth, and it can lead to speech and learning delays as well as social and emotional development issues. Identifying hearing loss early and providing appropriate interventions can help improve a child’s well-being and ensure they reach their fullest potential. While there is no cure or quick fix for pediatric hearing loss, there are several hearing loss trea ..read more

Ear infections in babies and kids are common, with five out of six children having at least one ear infection before they’re three years old. Although the infections are usually not serious, some children suffer from severe and recurrent ear infections. Parents and caretakers should be vigilant in treating and monitoring an ear infection. The professionals at Pediatric ENT Associates at Children’s of Alabama in Birmingham know how painful and frustrating these infections can be, especially when they’re recurrent. It’s important to understand what causes ear infections in babies so you can tak ..read more

Do you feel like you are constantly repeating yourself to your child or having to speak loudly to get their attention? In many cases, kids are being kids and using selective hearing with their parents, but hearing loss can also be a concern. Hearing loss is a condition in which the ears no longer work properly, the ability to hear has been lost, the sound is not heard as clearly, or it is heard after a delay. It can be challenging to navigate a diagnosis and treatment options when your child has hearing difficulties. The best place to start is with a board-certified and experienced pediatric ..read more

An upcoming surgery can cause anxiety in patients of all ages. Cochlear implant surgery can be life-changing for a child with hearing loss, but preparing them mentally and physically for the procedure will make all the difference in their comfort level as the day approaches.  Parents also approach surgery for their child with a great deal of anxiety and concern. Preparing yourself for the surgery will also help you get your child ready for the procedure. Education goes a long way in helping both of you face surgery with a positive attitude.   Tips For Preparing Yourself and Your Chi ..read more

From persistent nasal congestion to difficulty breathing, a deviated septum can make your child miserable. This nose condition can also cause facial pain and affect your child's ability to sleep soundly, making it difficult for your child to focus on activities or schoolwork. Fortunately, a deviated septum is also a treatable problem.  There are several ways to treat a deviated septum, but the most effective option is usually surgery. Our board-certified pediatric ENT surgeons perform deviated septum surgery on children of all ages, improving their nasal function and their quality of lif ..read more