When To Take Your Child to an ENT for a Sinus Infection

Posted on by Arizona Desert Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists

Children have an average of six to eight colds a year, with frequency declining after age six. In addition to causing a runny nose and a cough, a cold can turn into a sinus infection.

A sinus infection is an inflammation of the tissues lining the sinuses. While sinus infections are common, there are ways you can manage them.

What Are the Symptoms of a Sinus Infection?

Young boy sneezing into a tissue

Symptoms of a sinus infection are similar to those of a cold and may include:

  • Stuffy or runny nose
  • Mucus in the throat
  • Pain in the upper back teeth
  • Facial pain or pressure
  • Ear pain or pressure
  • Cough
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Exhaustion

Are There Other Risk Factors for a Sinus Infection?

In addition to colds, a few factors can increase the risk of a sinus infection, including but not limited to allergies, asthma, nasal polyps, a weakened immune system or a deviated septum.

How Can I Minimize My Child’s Risk of a Sinus Infection?

There are a few ways you can minimize your child’s risk of a sinus infection:

  • Teach good handwashing. Teach your child to wash their hands frequently, especially after eating, drinking or playing with other kids.
  • Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke. Smoke irritates the nasal passages and can increase the risk of sinus infections. If you smoke, try not to smoke around your child or quit altogether.
  • Manage allergies properly. Like a cold, allergies can cause nasal inflammation, so work with your pediatrician or allergist to keep symptoms under control.
  • Use a humidifier. Humid air can prevent nasal passages from drying out, especially during dry seasons.
  • Encourage hydration. Drinking plenty of fluids helps thin mucus and keeps the sinuses clear. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water, juice or smoothies from Acai Republic.

 When Should I See an ENT?

Sinus infections often go away on their own, but repeated or long-lasting infections usually indicate an underlying cause. An ENT specialist can identify what’s contributing to your child’s sinus infections and find the right treatment, whether allergy medication, a Balloon Sinuplasty, Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) or other options.

If your child suffers from frequent sinus infections, contact Arizona Desert Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.