Know More About Pediatric Ear, Nose and Throat

Know More About Pediatric Ear, Nose and Throat

Know More About Tonsils and Adenoids Two masses of tissue that are similar to the lymph nodes or “glands” found in the neck, groin, and armpits. Tonsils are the two masses on the back of the throat. Adenoids are high in the throat behind the nose and the roof of the mouth (soft palate) and are not visible through the mouth without special instruments. Tonsils and adenoids are on the body’s first line of defense—our immune system. They “sample” bacteria and viruses that enter the body through the mouth or nose at the risk of their own infection. But at times, they become more of a liability than an asset and may even trigger airway obstruction or repeated bacterial infections. Your ear, nose, and throat specialist can suggest the best treatment options.

Know More About Ear infections Otitis media means inflammation of the middle ear. The inflammation occurs as a result of a middle ear infection. It can occur in one or both ears. Otitis media is the most frequent diagnosis recorded for children who visit physicians for illness. It is also the most common cause of hearing loss in children. Although otitis media is most common in young children, it also affects adults occasionally. It occurs most commonly in the winter and early spring months.

Know More About Ear Tubes Painful ear infections are a rite of passage for children—by the age of five, nearly every child has experienced at least one episode. Most ear infections either resolve on their own (viral) or are effectively treated by antibiotics (bacterial). But sometimes, ear infections and/or fluid in the middle ear may become a chronic problem leading to other issues such as hearing loss, behavior, and speech problems. In these cases, insertion of an ear tube by an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist) may be considered. Ear tubes are tiny cylinders placed through the ear drum (tympanic membrane) to allow air into the middle ear. They also may be called tympanostomy tubes, myringotomy tubes, ventilation tubes, or PE (pressure equalization) tubes. These tubes can be made out of plastic, metal, or Teflon and may have a coating intended to reduce the possibility of infection. There are two basic types of ear tubes: short-term and long- term. Short- term tubes are smaller and typically stay in place for six months to a year before falling out on their own. Long-term tubes are larger and have flanges that secure them in place for a longer period of time. Long-term tubes may fall out on their own, but removal by an otolaryngologist is often necessary.

Know More About Hearing Loss Hearing loss in children can be temporary or permanent. It is important to have hearing loss evaluated by a physician who can rule out medical problems that may be causing the hearing loss, such as otitis media (ear infection), excessive earwax congenital malformations, or a genetic hearing loss. If it is determined that your child’s hearing loss is permanent, hearing aids may be recommended to amplify the sound reaching your child’s ear. Ear surgery may be able to restore or significantly improve hearing in some instances. For those with certain types of profound hearing loss who do not benefit sufficiently from hearing aids, a cochlear implant may be considered. Unlike a hearing aid, a cochlear implant bypasses damaged parts of the auditory system and directly stimulates the hearing nerve and allows the child to hear louder and clearer sound. You will need to decide whether or not your deaf child will communicate primarily with oral speech and/or sign language, and seek early intervention to prevent language delays. Research indicates that habilitation of hearing loss by age six months will prevent subsequent language delays. Other communication strategies such as auditory verbal therapy, lip reading, and cued speech may also be used in conjunction with a hearing aid or cochlear implant, or independently.

Know More About Nasal Obstruction Nasal obstruction is a symptom rather than a stand-alone diagnosis, and there is a wide range of medical and structural problems that can affect your ability to breathe properly. Structural problems caused by deformities of the cartilage or bony structures of the nasal framework are common causes of nasal obstruction. These include a deviated nasal septum, nasal polyps, large adenoids, as well as swollen turbinate tissue, and nasal valve collapse. Other causes may be non-anatomical and due to conditions that cause the nasal lining to swell, including chronic sinusitis or severe nasal allergies. Each of these nasal obstructions can often be corrected using a variety of surgical techniques.

Know More About Nasal Polyps Nasal polyps are benign growths that develop within the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. If large enough, these growths may block the passages and cause breathing difficulties, sinus infections or other complications. Nasal polyps can affect anyone, but they occur more frequently in adults. Medications may shrink or eliminate nasal polyps, but surgery is sometimes needed to remove them. Symptoms of Nasal Polyps Nasal congestion Runny nose Headache Facial pain Loss of smell or taste Sinus pressure Snoring If the nasal polyp is small, patients may not experience any symptoms and may be unaware that they even have a nasal polyp.

Know More About Adenoid Hypertrophy The tonsils are two masses of tissue found on either side of the back of the throat. The adenoids are located high in the throat behind the nose and roof of the mouth. Together they form part of the ring of glandular tissue at the back of the throat. The tonsils and adenoids assist the body in defense against infection by "sampling" entering bacteria and viruses and becoming infected themselves. They then help form antibodies to resist and fight future infections. However, the tonsils and adenoids often become susceptible to recurrent bacterial infections and can even trigger airway obstruction. Bacterial infections of the adenoids can be treated with various antibiotics. Patients can also help relieve symptoms by getting rest and drinking plenty of liquids. Surgical removal is considered when conditions are resistant to medical therapy or frequently recur. An adenoidectomy is the surgical removal of the adenoids, glands located behind the nose above the roof of the mouth. The function of the adenoids is to help fight ear, nose and throat infections by screening bacteria as they enter the body. At times, however, the adenoids themselves may become chronically infected and require removal; this condition is known as adenoiditis. The majority of adenoidectomies are performed in children, frequently in combination with tonsillectomies. In such cases, the procedure is called an adenotonsillectomy. The adenoids usually shrink by adolescence, so adults rarely undergo the procedure.

Know More About Speech Delay As a parent, you know your child. You listen to him/her talk and how he/she communicates. You also listen to other children of the same age and compare your child’s development to theirs. Knowing what is normal, and what is not, in your child’s speech and language development may help you determine whether or not to be concerned. Speech has to do with the sounds that come out of our mouths. It includes articulation, the way sounds and words are formed. It can be frustrating when speech is not understood by others, as in stuttering or mispronunciation. Language is much broader. It refers to the entire process of expressing and receiving information in a meaningful way. It is understanding and being understood through communication – verbal, nonverbal and written. It can also be a measure of intelligence. Language delays are more serious than speech problems. Although problems in speech and language differ, they also overlap in many ways. A child who has a language problem may be fine with the pronunciation of words but may not be able to put more than two words together. For another child, it may be difficult to understand their speech, but they try to use words and phrases to express ideas. Another child may speak very well but may have difficulty following directions.

Know More About Nosebleeds The nose is an area of the body that contains many tiny blood vessels or arterioles that can break easily. In the United States, one of every seven people will develop a nosebleed some time in their lifetime. Nosebleeds can occur at any age but are most common in children aged 2-10 years and adults aged 50-80 years. Nosebleeds are divided into two types, depending on whether the bleeding is coming from the front or back of the nose. Tips to prevent a nosebleed Keep the lining of the nose moist by gently applying a light coating of petroleum jelly or an antibiotic ointment with a cotton swab three times daily, including at bedtime. Commonly used products include Bacitracin, A and D Ointment, Eucerin, Polysporin, and Vaseline. Keep children’s fingernails short to discourage nose picking. Counteract the effects of dry air by using a humidifier. Use a saline nasal spray to moisten dry nasal membranes. Quit smoking. Smoking dries out the nose and irritates it.

Know More About Post Nasal Drip Glands in your nose and throat continually produce mucus (one to two quarts a day). Mucus moistens and cleans the nasal membranes, humidifies air, traps and clears inhaled foreign matter, and fights infection. Although it is normally swallowed unconsciously, the feeling of it accumulating in the throat or dripping from the back of your nose is called post-nasal drip. This sensation can be caused by excessively thick secretions or by throat muscle and swallowing disorders. What Causes Abnormal Secretions? Thin Secretions: Increased thin clear secretions can be due to colds and flu, allergies, cold temperatures, bright lights, certain foods/spices, pregnancy, and other hormonal changes. Various drugs (including birth control pills and high blood pressure medications) and structural abnormalities can also produce increased secretions. These abnormalities might include a deviated or irregular nasal septum (the cartilage and bony dividing wall that separates the two nostrils). Thick Secretions: Increased thick secretions in the winter often result from dryness in heated buildings and homes. They can also result from sinus or nose infections and allergies, especially to foods such as dairy products. If thin secretions become thick, and turn green or yellow, it is likely that a bacterial sinus infection is developing. In children, thick secretions from one side of the nose can mean that something is stuck in the nose such as a bean, wadded paper, or piece of toy. If these symptoms are observed, seek a physician for examination.

Know More About Sinusitis Have you ever had a cold or allergy attack that wouldn’t go away? If so, there’s a good chance you actually had sinusitis. Experts estimate that 37 million people are afflicted with sinusitis each year, making it one of the most common health conditions in America. That number may be significantly higher, since the symptoms of bacterial sinusitis often mimic those of colds or allergies, and many sufferers never see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. When you have frequent sinusitis, or the infection lasts three months or more, it could be chronic sinusitis. Symptoms of chronic sinusitis may be less severe than those of acute; however, untreated chronic sinusitis can cause damage to the sinuses and cheekbones that sometimes requires surgery to repair.

Know More About Airway and Breathing Disorders Laryngomalacia Sometimes babies have noisy breathing. This can be due to congestion, or it can be a condition of the larynx called laryngomalacia. Laryngomalacia is a congenital softening of the tissues of the larynx, commonly known as the voice box, above the vocal cords. Laryngomalacia is the most common cause of raspy, noisy breathing in infancy. It happens when the structure of the larynx is floppy and malformed. This causes the tissues to fall over the airway, partially blocking it and creating noise when breathing. Tracheostomy A tracheostomy is a surgical procedure to create an opening through the neck into the trachea (windpipe). A tube is usually placed through this opening to provide an airway and to remove secretions from the lungs. This tube is called a tracheostomy tube or trach tube. Bronchoscopy A bronchoscopy is a test performed to view and diagnose problems in the bronchial tubes or related to lung disease. The procedure is performed using a bronchoscope, a device used to see the interior of the lungs. The doctor inserts this long tube through the nose or mouth, into the trachea and then into the patient’s lungs. A bronchoscopy is usually recommended when the patient shows signs of lung disease.

Know More About Laryngomalacia Sometimes babies have noisy breathing. This can be due to congestion, or it can be a condition of the larynx called laryngomalacia. Laryngomalacia is a congenital softening of the tissues of the larynx, commonly known as the voice box, above the vocal cords. Laryngomalacia is the most common cause of raspy, noisy breathing in infancy. It happens when the structure of the larynx is floppy and malformed. This causes the tissues to fall over the airway, partially blocking it and creating noise when breathing. At Coastal Ear, Nose, and Throat, we often conduct a nasopharyngolaryngoscopy to evaluate problems with a child’s breathing. We use a very tiny camera that resembles a piece of spaghetti for the test. The camera is inserted into the baby’s nostril and down into the lower part of the throat. This allows our doctors to see the larynx area. If we think your child has laryngomalacia, we then investigate the extent to see whether the lower airway is affected. Other tests such as microlaryngoscopy could be used at that point.

Know More About Laryngoscopy & Nasopharyngoscopy A laryngoscopy is a procedure that examines the larynx, or voice box, which contains the vocal cords. This procedure can be performed for many reasons, including diagnosing a persistent cough, hoarseness or bad breath, to detect a mass or tumor on the vocal cords, or to treat conditions of the throat and larynx. What to expect during laryngoscopy procedure During the procedure, Your physician will be able to see the voice box and vocal cords with clarity because they are magnified and illuminated. Videos are produced during the examination and can be reviewed immediately afterwards. In most cases, the laryngoscopy can be performed outpatient with very little necessary recovery time.

Know More About Voice Disorder As part of the normal aging process, the muscles that sustain and support our vocal folds (cords), as well as the structure of the larynx (voice box), may alter and change. These changes, that can affect the way we use our voice and the way it sounds, usually occur after age 60. Symptoms: If you have presbyphonia, you may experience: Occasional or frequent breaks in your voice Breathy voice Tension in the larynx Sudden interruptions in normal speech flow Reduced highs and lows in vocal range Reduced volume Hoarseness Vocal fatigue The severity of symptoms varies from person to person. But even if your symptoms are initially mild, they may worsen over time if you don’t receive the appropriate treatment.

Know More About Nasal Fracture In cases of facial trauma, nasal fractures are a common type of bone injury. This is largely due to the prominence and central location of the nose on the face and the weakness of the nasal cartilage. A nasal fracture is commonly the result of an injury from a car accident, a fall, a physical altercation, or a sports related injury. Untreated nasal fractures can negatively affect both the appearance and the function of the nose. Functional problems include chronic nasal obstruction or blockage, and a predisposition for sinusitis, infection, and nose bleeds. Symptoms of Nasal Fractures Nasal fractures often go unnoticed by both physicians and patients as a combination of the symptoms, including tenderness, hemorrhaging, and deformity, may not occur for long or at all. Additional symptoms of nasal fractures may include: Tenderness Swelling Difficulty breathing through the nose Crooked appearance of the nose Bruising Nose bleeds Pain

Know More About Neck Masses Neck masses in children are most often benign. One of the most commonly diagnosed benign neck masses is an enlarged lymph node. Lymph nodes help to fight infection, so they will often swell up during an upper respiratory infection. Usually, these “swollen glands” are tender during the course of the infection. Most of the time, they will shrink down as the infection resolves. On occasion, enlarged lymph node(s) can become an abscess (collection of pus) which requires intravenous antibiotics and surgery. Another common neck mass is a cyst, which is filled with fluid. Many cysts in the head and neck are congenital, that is, they have been present since birth. Despite their presence in the neck, an actual lump may not appear until much later in life. In fact, some congenital neck cysts do not get diagnosed until adulthood. The most common benign neck masses are branchial cleft cysts, thyroglossal duct cysts, epidermoid cysts, dermoid cysts, lymphangiomas, and hemangiomas. These masses can cause a cosmetic deformity, as they bulge out from the neck. In addition, many neck masses cause symptoms, especially if they get infected. For this reason, surgical removal is generally recommended for most neck masses.

Know More About Tongue Tie / Ankyloglossia When we say, “tongue tied,” most of us think of a situation when we are too excited to express ourselves verbally. Although not a medical condition, tongue tie is the name for a fairly common condition that limits the movement of the tongue – medically referred to as ankyloglossia. Before we are born, a strong cord of tissue called the frenulum is positioned in the center of the mouth and guides the development of the oral cavity. As we grow and develop, it thins and recedes to a small thin piece of tissue that attaches the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. In some children, the frenulum is especially tight or fails to recede and may cause difficulty with tongue movement. Ankyloglossia or tongue tie can cause eating or speaking difficulties in some children. In infants, tongue tie can present with trouble sucking or poor weight gain. In breastfed infants, it can cause trouble with latching, or the mother may experience pain when the baby is nursing. Some mothers give up nursing because of tongue tie that is not recognized. In toddlers and older children, tongue tie can be a cause of trouble with speech articulation, especially consonant sounds. Signs that your child may have difficulty due to tongue tie include a V-shaped notch at the tip of the tongue, inability to stick the tongue out past the gums, or simply difficulty licking an ice cream cone or lollipop.

Know More About Bone-anchored hearing aid (BAHA) Bone-anchored hearing devices are implantable devices used to improve hearing by transmitting sound directly to the inner ear through the skull. Sound energy causes vibrations in the skull which are transmitted to the inner ear, which results in hearing. They have been successfully used to improve patients' hearing for more than 30 years. Bone anchored hearing devices may be an effective solution for multiple varieties of hearing loss. Some patients are incapable of wearing hearing aids due to the size of the ear canal, chronic drainage, or severe hearing loss. A BAHA may be a solution for these patients, however a bone anchored hearing devices are not a solution for every patient. Whether or not a bone anchored hearing device may be an effective solution for you will depend on your type of hearing loss, quantity of hearing loss, physical examination, and hearing history. This information will be discussed with your Coastal provider to determine if a bone anchored hearing device is right for you. Each bone-anchored hearing device consists of an implanted titanium fixture and a detachable sound processor that clips onto that fixture. Using a minimally invasive procedure, a bone anchored hearing device is surgically implanted in the skull behind the ear. Surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can return home after the procedure. After healing has occurred and the device has integrated into the skull, the bone anchored hearing device is activated, facilitating hearing.

Know More About Cochlear Implants A cochlear implant is an electronic device that restores partial hearing to the deaf. It is surgically implanted in the inner ear and activated by a device worn outside the ear. Unlike a hearing aid, it does not make sound louder or clearer. Instead, the device bypasses damaged parts of the auditory system and directly stimulates the nerve of hearing, allowing individuals who are profoundly hearing impaired to receive sound.

Know More About Tracheostomy A tracheotomy is a surgical procedure used to make an opening in the windpipe (trachea) to remove an obstruction or allow air to pass through to the lungs. This procedure is performed to relieve breathing problems and is often performed in emergency situations after more conservative attempts have failed. A tracheotomy may be performed to bypass an obstruction in the airway, to provide long-term breathing support or to provide a temporary airway during another procedure that might restrict breathing. The inserted tube can remain in place as long as breathing support is needed, and can be temporary or permanent. An emergency tracheotomy is a quick procedure that involves a cut in the larynx and the insertion of a tube to provide oxygen to the patient. Non-emergency procedures are more thorough, making a cut in the neck and separating the neck muscles before cutting into the trachea. An oxygen tube is then inserted to let the patient breathe and help remove the obstruction. Patients may experience difficulty breathing and speaking with the tracheotomy tube in place. Depending on how long the tube is needed, it may be closed up with stitches or surgically. Recovery from a tracheotomy takes a few weeks and may require speech therapy along with plenty of rest. While this is generally considered a safe procedure, there are risks associated with any surgical procedure. Talk to your doctor about your treatment

Know More About Allergic and Chronic Rhinitis Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) is an especially common chronic nasal problem in adolescents and young adults. Allergies to inhalants like pollen, dust, and animal dander begin to cause sinus and nasal symptoms in early childhood. Infants and young children are especially susceptible to allergic sensitivity to foods and indoor allergens. What are Allergic Rhinitis Symptoms? Symptoms can vary with the season and type of allergen and include sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes and nose. A year – long exposure usually produces nasal congestion (chronic stuffy nose). In children, allergen exposure and subsequent inflammation in the upper respiratory system cause nasal obstruction. This obstruction becomes worse with the gradual enlargement of the adenoid tissue and the tonsils inherent with age. Consequently, the young patient may have mouth – breathing, snoring, and sleep – disordered breathing such as obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep problems such as insomnia, bed-wetting, and sleepwalking may accompany these symptoms along with behavioral changes including short attention span, irritability, poor school performance, and excessive daytime sleepiness.

Know More About Nasopharyngeal Tumors A nasopharyngeal tumor is a growth that forms in the nasopharynx, or the uppermost portion of the throat that is found behind the nasal cavity. The nasopharynx serves as a passageway for air from the nose to the throat and eventually to the lungs. A tumor in the nasopharynx may be either benign or malignant. Nasopharyngeal tumors that are malignant, or cancerous, may spread to surrounding tissue and other parts of the body. Symptoms of Nasopharyngeal Tumors The symptoms of a nasopharyngeal tumor may include: Pain Persistent sore throat Earache Nosebleeds Hoarse voice

Know More About Tear Duct Obstruction A tear duct obstruction, also known as dacryostenosis or nasolacrimal duct obstruction, is a common condition that affects more than five percent of all infants and is present at birth. Tears usually drain through small openings in the corners of the eyelids, known as puncta, and enter the nose through the nasolacrimal duct. When an obstruction exists, tears cannot properly drain from the eyes and may well up on the surface of the eye and overflow on the eyelashes and eyelids. The eyelids may also become red and swollen with yellow or green discharge. Many infants are born with nasolacrimal duct obstruction. The tear drainage system may not be fully developed or there may be an abnormality in the tear duct. A thin membrane often remains over the opening that empties into the nose in congenitally blocked tear ducts. Although more common in infants, nasolacrimal duct obstruction may also occur in adults and may be caused by infection, injury or a tumor.

Know More About Tearing And Eye Surgery Grave’s disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes the thyroid gland to produce an excessive amount of thyroid hormone within the body. This overproduction creates more hormones than the body needs and causes many important bodily functions to speed up. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck and controls metabolism, heart and nervous system functions as well as other metabolic functions. An overproduction of the thyroid hormone can lead to hypertension, weight loss, irregular heartbeat and eye problems. In addition to other symptoms, Grave’s disease may also cause a condition known as Grave’s ophthalmopathy in which the immune system attacks the muscles and other tissue around the eyes. This causes an inflammation and a build-up of tissue around the eye, which in turn, may cause the eyeballs to bulge out. Additional eye-related symptoms caused by Grave’s ophthalmopathy may include: Dry and irritated eyes Excessive tearing Swollen eyelids Double vision Light sensitivity Pressure or pain Difficulty moving the eyes

Know More About Anosmia (Lack of Smell) Anosmia is a condition in which a person completely loses the sense of smell. Depending on the reason for its loss, the condition may be temporary or permanent. Common causes of temporary anosmia include colds, allergies and sinus infections, and viral infections such as the flu. Aging is also a factor. Causes of Anosmia More-serious causes of total or partial loss of the sense of smell include the following: Birth defects such as bone deformities Brain tumors Certain medications Cocaine abuse Diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis Hormone disturbances Injury to the nose Nasal polyps Nutritional deficiencies Radiation therapy for head or neck cancer Smoking Toxic chemical exposure

Know More About Cerebral Spinal Fluid Leaks Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) surrounds the brain and spine, and is encased in a membrane known as the dura. Sometimes, a CSF leak develops from a defect in the dura, allowing fluid to leak from the nose or ear. CSF leaks can be caused by head injuries, various surgeries, or spontaneously from high pressure inside the skull. Symptoms of a CSF leak include a watery, clear discharge from the nose or ear, and a headache that is more painful when standing upright than when lying down. If accompanied by nausea, photosensitivity and a stiff neck, an infection may be present. If a CSF leak is not repaired, serious and potentially fatal complications, including meningitis or swelling of the brain, may arise.

Know More About Sinonasal and Skull Base Tumors The nasal cavity and surrounding sinuses assist in maintaining the functionality and structure of the head and neck area. Most tumors of the sinuses are benign, but may result in troubling symptoms such as nasal obstruction, facial pain, visual difficulties, sleep apnea, snoring and chronic sinus infections. Sinus tumors may be diagnosed through endoscopic examination through the nose, or through imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans or MRI scans. When small benign tumors are present, particularly if they are not interfering with the patient's quality of life, they may only necessitate ongoing observation by the physician. In a small number of cases the mucosa lining of the nose and sinuses can be susceptible to abnormal cell development, which can lead to the formation of cancerous tumors. Malignant cancers of the nose and sinuses are, however, quite rare. When they do occur, they are most often composed of squamous cells, and do not often metastasize. Nonetheless, any malignant growth in the nose or sinuses must be removed.

Contact Us Coastal Ear, Nose and Throat Address: 3700 Route 33 Neptune, NJ 07753 (732) 280-7855 (main) (732) 280-7815 Coastal Ear, Nose and Throat Address: 1301 Route 72 Unit 340 Manahawkin, NJ 08050 (609) 978-0590 (732) 280-7815 Coastal Ear, Nose and Throat Address: 100 Commons Way #210 Holmdel, NJ 07733 (732) 280-7855 (732)-280-7815 For More Details Visit Us: https://coastalearnoseandthroat.com/services/pediatric-ear-nose-and-throat/

Know More About Pediatric Ear, Nose and Throat