Keeping Kids Healthy: A Guide for Kids ENT Health
posted by Danette Forbes on Wednesday, February 19, 2025
February is Kids ENT Health Month! At Northwest Iowa Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists of Spencer Hospital, we are committed to providing expert care for common ear, nose, and throat (ENT) issues in children. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your child’s ENT health remains a priority.
Common Ear, Nose, and Throat Issues in Children
At our clinic, we frequently treat a variety of ENT conditions, including:
- Ear infections – These are particularly common in young children and can cause pain, fever, and even temporary hearing loss.
- Tonsillitis – This leads to sore throats and difficulty swallowing, sometimes requiring medical intervention.
- Chronic sinus infections and allergies – Symptoms include nasal congestion, runny noses, and persistent discomfort.
- Hearing or speech delays – These can sometimes be linked to chronic ear infections or fluid buildup in the middle ear, affecting a child’s development.
How We Treat These Conditions
The treatment approach depends on the condition, and at Northwest Iowa ENT, we offer various solutions, including:
- Antibiotics for ear infections, with ear tubes recommended for recurring cases to prevent future infections.
- Tonsillectomy for chronic tonsillitis or obstructive sleep apnea.
- Allergy management through medication, nasal sprays, or surgical intervention for persistent cases.
- Hearing and speech support with audiologists, speech therapists, and, if necessary, surgical procedures like ear tube placement.
Prevention and Management Tips for Parents
We encourage parents to take these proactive steps to help prevent ENT issues:
- Frequent handwashing to reduce the spread of infections.
- Staying up to date on vaccinations, including the flu shot, to prevent illnesses that can lead to ENT complications.
- Managing allergies by identifying triggers such as dust or pet dander.
- Scheduling regular check-ups to catch and address potential issues early.
Convenient ENT Care Across Northwest Iowa
At Northwest Iowa Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists, we provide care not only at Spencer Hospital but also at our satellite clinics in Cherokee, Estherville, Sibley, and Spirit Lake. This allows families in surrounding communities to access specialized ENT care closer to home.
How to Schedule an Appointment
If you have concerns about your child’s ear, nose, or throat health, our team is here to help. Families can contact Northwest Iowa ENT Specialists by calling our office at (712) 262-8120 or visiting Northwest Iowa ENT on our website to learn more about our services and locations.
As we observe Kids ENT Health Month, we encourage all parents to prioritize their child’s ENT health. With expert care available locally, you can feel confident in seeking the best treatment for your little ones. Thank you for trusting us to care for your children’s health!
For more information on Kids ENT Health, check out Newsradio 1240 KICD's community health podcast featuring Danette Forbes, Clinic Director of Northwest Iowa ENT. Follow the link to listen to the full episode - Weekly Health Update Kids ENT Month: February 13, 2025
- children
- ent