Pediatric ENT

Pediatric ENT Services in Charleston, SC

Pediatric Ear, Nose, and Throat Conditions We Treat

Treatments & Procedures

Our little ones need special care. There is a saying in medicine, “kids are NOT just little adults!” The Charleston Sinus Center’s physicians, audiologists, staff and facilities are equipped to treat pediatric ears, noses and throats. We work closely with parents, pediatricians and, of course, the patient, to ensure the best treatment for your special little one!

Getting Your Child the ENT Help They Require

Most of us have experienced an ear infection at some point in our lives. The most common symptoms include pain, pressure and hearing loss. An infection is an inflammation within the middle ear, this may even develop into “fluid” behind the eardrum. Children are at increased risk for these types of infection, but may not always be able to express what the problem is. They may have fever, tugging at their ears or become less responsive and irritable. Most infections will either clear on their own or can be treated with oral antibiotics.

But when does something further need to be done? When do you see our ENTs? And when do you consider “tube” placement?

Why Choose Us?

What Are Ear “Tubes”?

Ear tubes are small plastic hollow cylinders that help drain fluid from the middle ear, provide ventilation to the middle ear, and allow for ear drops to be placed directly at the site of the infection. They allow for increased hearing, decreased pressure and pain, and a way to treat any further infections with ear drops and not usually needing oral antibiotics. “Tubes” are inserted through a hole made in the eardrum and stay there for about 6 months to 1 year. Usually, this is enough time for your child to “out grow” the ear infection stage. The procedure is one of the most common performed in the United States and is done with a mask anesthesia, so that your little does not move during the procedure and does not have any discomfort. This is about a ten minute procedure that can improve your child’s hearing health and your mental wellbeing!

When You Should Visit Our ENTs

Speech development is key in our younger years, but fluid in the middle ear can block the transmission of sound and reduce learning development. If your child has chronic fluid in the ear, it feels like wearing ear plugs all the time, while trying to develop new words and perfect enunciation. As you can imagine, this can make learning even your native language a VERY challenging endeavor! When antibiotics and waiting have failed, “tubes” are a solution.

Other children might be able to clear the fluid but are experiencing repeated infections. This leads to increased pediatrician visits, increased oral antibiotic use, more time out of school and/or daycare, and a temporary decrease in hearing.

If your child fits into one of these two categories it may be time to talk to your pediatrician about seeing an Otolaryngologist (ENT).

Patient Testimonials