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Pediatric Otolaryngology (ENT)

The otolaryngologists (also called ENTs) at MaineHealth are trained and experienced in treating and caring for pediatric ear, nose and throat conditions, from chronic earaches to sinus infections.

Does my child need to see an ENT?

Ear, nose and throat doctors provide specialized care for a number of conditions in children. These conditions include, but are not limited to:

• Snoring

• Sleep apnea

• Ringing in the ear (tinnitus)

• Sinusitis

• Hearing loss

• Balance disorders

• Chronic ear infections

• Allergies

• Nasal disorders

• Difficulty swallowing

Ask your primary care provider about getting a referral.

Is my child at risk for having an ENT condition?

Any child can develop an ENT condition. But certain things can put your child at greater risk. They include:

  • Obesity

  • Being exposed to tobacco smoke

  • Overuse of antibiotics

Infants who breastfed are less likely to develop an ear, nose or throat condition.

ENT condition symptoms

There are several symptoms that may indicate that your child has an ear, nose or throat condition. These symptoms include, but are not limited to:

  • Pain

  • Dizziness

  • Shortness of breath

  • Lack of appetite

  • Loss/hard of hearing

  • Sneezing

  • Difficulty balancing

  • Difficulty sleeping

  • Hoarse or raspy voice

  • Ear-pulling

  • Falling behind on speech development

  • Fluid discharge from the ear

What types of ENT services are offered?

Our pediatric otolaryngologists offer evaluations and treatment related to ENT care.

  • Infant hearing testing services

  • Pediatric hearing loss tests and treatment

  • Hearing aids (fitting, orientation, repairs)

  • Tests to assess balance disorders (Electronystagmography)

  • Skin cancer treatment

  • Ear, neck, head and sinus surgery

  • Full-hearing amplification services

  • Tonsillectomies