Otitis Media
Ear infections, called otitis media, are one of the most common problems we see in children, but they can also occur in adults as well. These infections occur in an air pocket behind the eardrum that contains the auditory ossicles, or the three tiny vibrating bones that help us hear. This condition can cause significant ear pain, trouble sleeping, irritability, loss of balance, hearing difficulties, fluid drainage, loss of appetite, fever, and other symptoms that can interfere with daily activities. Most ear infections clear up on their own, but persistent or chronic infections may require the use of antibiotics or placement of tympanostomy tubes.

Tympanostomy Tubes
Tympanostomy tubes, also called ventilation tubes or myringotomy tubes, are tiny cylinders that help to prevent fluid buildup in the middle ear. These tubes are surgically inserted into the tympanic membrane (eardrum) and may be made of plastic or metal. Almost every child has had at least one ear infection, and most do not require medical attention unless the symptoms become severe. Tympanostomy tubes can significantly alleviate or eliminate symptoms for children and adults with chronic ear infections.

Tonsillitis
The tonsils are two oval-shaped lymph nodes in the back of the throat, one on either side. Viral and bacterial infections are the most common cause of tonsilitis, both of which cause the tonsils to swell and become inflamed. Symptoms of tonsillitis include fever, sore throat, difficult or painful swallowing, lethargy, redness of the back of the throat, and white patches on or near the tonsils. In severe cases or cases of chronic infection, your physician may recommend surgical removal of the tonsils.

Adenoiditis
The adenoids are pockets of lymphatic tissue in the back of the nose and throat that assist the immune system with removing bacteria and viruses. Adenoiditis is caused by inflammation or enlargement of this tissue, which presents similarly to tonsilitis. Symptoms of adenoiditis include nasal congestion, sore throat, difficult or painful swallowing, swollen glands in the neck, new vocal fry or raspy voice, and ear pain. This condition is most often diagnosed in children since adenoids eventually disappear over time. By the teenage years, the adenoids are almost completely gone. Most cases can be treated with antibiotics, but for severe or chronic infections your physician may recommend surgical removal of the adenoids, known as adenoidectomy.

Ankyloglossia (Tongue-Tie)
Ankyloglossia, commonly known as tongue-tie, is a congenital disorder that restricts movement of the muscle. In most cases the condition is caused by a shortened lingual frenulum, a thin mucous membrane under the tongue. This condition can cause the infant to have a difficult time breast feeding and can also cause speech issues, poor oral hygiene, and more. Some cases of ankyloglossia may be resolved through surgical intervention, and a frenotomy or frenuloplasty may be required to separate the lingual frenulum from the tongue.

General Pediatric Services
Pediatric otologic surgery is an umbrella term that encompasses a variety of ENT-related conditions that affect children. The pediatric specialists at Acadian ENT & Facial Plastics have experience performing interventional surgical treatment for both common and severe conditions that affect the ears, nose, oral cavity, larynx or voice box, trachea and esophagus, head and neck, and more. From cleft palate repair to tracheostomy, we have dedicated professionals that can help our smallest patients find relief from their conditions.

Earwell
Acadian Skin Care & Laser Center is the only provider in Lafayette that can perform this procedure! This revolutionary device corrects infant ear deformities without surgical intervention. Since ear deformities are one of the more common referrals we receive from pediatricians, there’s now a simple, fast, ad non-traumatic solution. Up until this point, the only viable option for a patient with an ear deformity had been an invasive procedure that was costly to the parent and often difficult for the child.

EarWell® introduces a non-surgical, non-invasive, and painless procedure that corrects infant ear deformities regardless of type or severity. It properly and permanently reshapes the ear during the narrow time window when circulating maternal estrogens remain at high levels in the child. Best results are achieved when EarWell® therapy is initiated during the first three weeks of life.

The incidence of ear deformities is substantially higher than previously thought. Several published studies indicate that the frequency exceeds 15% of all newborns and may be as high as 25%. Most ears do not significantly self-correct. Documentation now suggests that 70% of the ears deformed at infancy either stay the same or get worse. EarWell® not only eliminates the prospect of a surgical option, but the procedure is typically covered by most insurance, eliminating most out-of-pocket expenses.

Food & Environmental Allergies
Allergies are immune responses from external stimuli, known as allergens. These allergens can cause mild symptoms in most people, such as a runny nose, sore throat, and cough. However, individuals with higher sensitivity can have more severe reactions, known as anaphylaxis. Types of allergens include pollen, dust, pet dander, and even certain naturally occurring chemicals in food like pectin in fruit or gluten from wheat. The immune system responds to these stimuli by attacking the unrecognized invader, triggering an allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention, so it is important to avoid allergens if possible.

There are a wide variety of ENT conditions that occur in children but listed above are the most common issues that we see in young patients. This is not a comprehensive list or meant to diagnose a condition. We strongly recommend that parents with young children seek attention from a licensed and board-certified ENT for complete diagnostics, treatment, and maintenance of certain ENT conditions when their child presents with symptoms. If you have any questions or if you would like to schedule an appointment, you can reach Acadian ENT & Facial Plastics via phone at (337) 237-0650 during regular business hours.