The most common EAR diseases in children: Advice for parents

Written by Ioannis Athanasopoulos Surgeon of Children’s Incubators, Director of Children’s Unit, Medical Center of Athens. Children often face problems in the ears, nose and neck due to the immaturity of the immune system and contact with microorganisms in kindergarten, school, or in play areas. What are the most often faced by children? 1) Otitis Otitis is the inflammation of the ear, usually bacterial, viral or fungal aetiology and is distinguished in: External otitis: Inflammation of the outer auditory duct. Acute mean otitis: Inflammation in the middle ear (abdominalness between the drum and the inner ear), with symptoms such as pain, fever and decreased hearing. Ecstatic otitis: Fluid concentration in the middle ear, without severe symptoms, that can cause hearing and feeling full. 2) Pharynggomygdalitis It is the inflammation of the pharynx and tonsils, which is usually caused by viruses or bacteria. Symptoms include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever and enlarged tonsils. In severe cases antibiotic therapy or even tonsilectomy may be needed. 3) Allergic Rhinitis Concerns inflammation of the nasal mucosa caused by allergens, such as pollen, dust and pets. Symptoms include watery collapse, sneezing, itching and nasal congestion. It may be associated with other allergic conditions such as asthma. 4) Nasal Infections Spinal infections are usually caused by viruses or bacteria. They include inflammation of the inner part of the nose and the cavity around the nose, such as sinuses. Cataract, nasal congestion and sneezing may be accompanied by fever, facial pain, headache and cough. (5) Gravity Gravity is mainly distinguished in neurosensors and conductivity. Neurosensory gravitation occurs when the inner ear (chuckling) or auditory nerve has been damaged and is permanent. Gravity conduction occurs when sound waves cannot reach the inner ear. This may be due to wax accumulation, fluid in the ear, drum piercing, cholesteatoma, otosclerosis etc. Often it is temporary and can be corrected by treatment or surgery. 6) Obvulsive Somnolence In this condition breathing is discontinued during sleep due to airway obstruction. Symptoms include snoring, restless sleep and sleepiness per day. It is often caused by enlarged tonsils or glandular secretions (meats) and may require surgical intervention. Obstructing apnea has a serious impact on the physical and psychological development of children. Children with obstructive apnea may experience irritability, aggression and concentration difficulties. Lack of quality sleep can affect learning ability and academic performance. Chronic lack of oxygen can affect the development of children. Poor sleep quality can reduce the immune system’s ability to fight infections. 7) Rhinorhagia Usually caused by dry air, injury or nasal infections. In most cases, she stops by herself and is not serious. Parents can help children push their nostrils into the soft spot and slightly tilt their heads forward to stop bleeding. If nosebleed is frequent or prolonged, medical advice should be sought. Why is preventive control important? It is vital for early detection and treatment of these diseases. Regular visits to or from the pediatrician can help identify problems before they develop into serious situations. How can parents help prevent? Training children in right hygiene practices, such as frequent hand washing and avoiding contact with people who have symptoms of infection, may reduce the risk of infections. Avoiding smoking at home helps reduce irritations in the respiratory system of children and reduces the risk of respiratory problems. Regular vaccinations are important for disease prevention. Preventive hearing control begins in the first month of life and continues in preschool and school age. Hearing check is required in case of speech delay and learning difficulties. EAR diseases often happen to children, but with information and attention, we can reduce their impact and ensure healthy growth! Recognizing the important role of prevention and early diagnosis, and on the occasion of the beginning of the enrollment period, for the new school year, the Paediatric Center Athens & Thessaloniki Medical Inter-Balcanian, Athens Medical Group, offer complete screening packages “Back to school” at preferential prices until 31 October 2024. You can plan your appointment online