Please note as of January 2022, Rancho ENT only sees children ages 15 and up to parallel the hospital’s policies for admission and treatment. Occasional exceptions are made for children ages 10 and up for non-emergent issues.
Colds and sniffles are an inevitable part of childhood, but when congestion leads to ear infections or sinus infections, it can cause unnecessary pain and missed school days. While you can’t prevent every cold, taking steps to stop minor symptoms from turning into bigger problems helps your child feel better faster and stay healthier year-round.
At Rancho Ear, Nose & Throat, our experienced team provides gentle, effective pediatric ENT services to help teens breathe easier, sleep soundly, and stay healthy year-round. Serving families throughout San Diego, we offer comprehensive care for everything from chronic ear infections to sinus problems and throat conditions.
Why Are Children More Prone to Ear and Sinus Infections?
Children’s nasal passages and sinuses are smaller and more easily blocked by even mild swelling from a cold or allergies. When these narrow passages close off, normal drainage from the ears and sinuses becomes trapped. Stagnant mucus creates the perfect environment for bacteria to grow, leading to infections.
Additionally, a child’s immune system is still developing. Because the body “learns” from exposure to viruses and bacteria over time, adults get fewer infections while children can experience six or more colds per year.
Preventing Ear and Sinus Infections in Kids
While you can’t stop every cold, you can help prevent complications. Here are a few simple but effective ways to keep infections at bay:
These small steps can make a big difference in preventing fluid buildup and secondary bacterial infections.
When to See a ENT Specialist
Most colds cause a runny nose, congestion, low-grade fever, and mild sore throat, and improve within five to seven days. However, you should call your child’s doctor or an ENT specialist if you notice:
These may signal a bacterial infection or another issue that requires medical attention.
Chronic or recurrent ear, sinus, or throat infections should not be considered “normal.” Left untreated, they can cause hearing loss, speech delays, or sleep disturbances. Enlarged tonsils or adenoids can also contribute to snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. In such cases, medication or surgical treatment may be recommended to restore your child’s health and comfort.
Why Choose Rancho ENT for Pediatric ENT Care
At Rancho Ear, Nose & Throat, we understand that children deserve care that’s both expert and compassionate. Here’s what makes our practice a trusted choice for families in San Diego and Poway:
Help Your Child Breathe, Hear, and Feel Better in Poway, CA
When your child isn’t feeling well, you want answers and relief fast. The caring team at Rancho ENT is here to provide expert diagnosis, effective treatment, and lasting results.
Call 858-674-1165 today to schedule your child’s appointment at Rancho Ear, Nose & Throat in Poway, CA, serving families throughout San Diego.
