Common symptoms
- Recurrent ear infections
- Hearing difficulties
- Mouth breathing
- Snoring
- Nasal blockage
- Recurrent tonsillitis
- Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
- Speech or voice-related concerns
When to see an ENT specialist
- Repeated ear infections or ear discharge
- Your child does not respond to sounds, turns the TV up, or speech is delayed
- Loud snoring, pauses in breathing at night, or constant mouth breathing
- Tonsillitis several times a year
- A bead, seed or other object in the ear or nose — do not try to remove it at home
Do not wait for an appointment. Sudden hearing loss in one ear, difficulty breathing, or a nosebleed that will not stop needs the hospital emergency department now, not an appointment.
How it is assessed
A gentle examination adapted to the child’s age. Ear endoscopy lets parents see the eardrum on the monitor. Hearing tests suitable for the child’s age are arranged by referral where needed.
Treatment
Many problems are managed with medicines and watchful waiting. Where enlarged adenoids or tonsils cause snoring, breathing problems or repeated infections, or where fluid behind the eardrum persists and affects hearing, surgery such as adenoidectomy, tonsillectomy or grommet insertion may be discussed.
Frequently asked questions
Does my child's snoring need attention?
Occasional snoring during a cold is common. Loud snoring most nights, pauses in breathing, restless sleep or daytime tiredness should be checked; enlarged adenoids and tonsils are a frequent cause.
Will my child grow out of ear infections?
Many children do, as the tube between the ear and the nose matures. Frequent infections, or fluid that affects hearing and speech, need assessment.
Is it safe to remove adenoids or tonsils in children?
These are among the most common operations in children and are generally safe. The benefits and risks for your child are discussed in detail before any decision is made.
This page is general information to help you decide when to seek care. It is not a diagnosis — the right treatment depends on examination.