Conveniently located to serve San Diego
Occasionally, children will require the assistance of a pediatric ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist for certain medical conditions. At ENT Associates of San Diego, our pediatric ENT diagnostic and treatment services are performed with immense care and delicate precision by board-certified and fellowship-trained otolaryngologist Dr. Rowley S. Busino in La Mesa, California.
Pediatric ENT Conditions We Treat
Some of the most frequent pediatric ENT ailments include:
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction (ETD)
ETD occurs when the eustachian tubes can’t balance the pressure in the middle ear, leading to symptoms like discomfort, ear fullness, and muffled hearing. Common causes include colds, allergies, and sinus infections. Diagnosis involves examining the ears, throat, and/or nasal passages. Treatments range from medications to surgical options, depending on severity.
ETD is much more frequent in children due to their shorter, more horizontal eustachian tubes, which impede fluid drainage. Dr. Busino will often recommend home remedies first, like increased swallowing, yawning, gum chewing, or even breathing out hard with a closed nose and mouth. If these don’t work, we can discuss medications and other advanced options.
Pediatric Hearing Loss & Audiology
Hearing loss in children is often caused by:
- Infections
- Fluid or earwax buildup
- Congenital factors
- Loud noise exposure
- Trauma
Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent developmental delays in speech and learning, and can involve a physical exam, audiometric tests, and sometimes imaging. Treatments depend on the cause and severity, ranging from earwax removal and medications to cochlear implants or ear tubes. An alternative or additional option might be speech therapy.
Pediatric Sinusitis (Sinus Infections)
Sinus infections in kids are usually linked to frequent colds and allergies. Early diagnosis via a physical exam or allergy testing is essential for preventing complications. Treatments typically include nasal sprays, antibiotics, or surgery to improve drainage.
Tonsillitis & Chronic Sore Throats
Tonsillitis describes an infection of the tonsils at the back of the throat. Symptoms include a sore throat, swelling of the area, and fever. Due to their developing immune systems, tonsillitis is more common in children. Diagnosis relies on physical symptoms, an examination, and throat swabs. Treatments may include antibiotics for bacterial cases, while recurring tonsillitis might require a tonsillectomy.
When to See a Pediatric ENT Specialist
If your child experiences frequent or chronic ear infections, persistent nasal congestion, or recurring sore throats, it may be time to meet with Dr. Busino. Physical symptoms, such as loud snoring, mouth breathing, or restless sleep, can indicate underlying issues like enlarged tonsils or adenoids. Early intervention is key if you notice delays in your child’s speech development or if they seem unresponsive to normal sound levels.
What to Expect During Your Child’s First Visit
Your child’s first appointment at ENT Associates of San Diego with Dr. Rowley S. Busino is designed to be a reassuring and thorough experience. She is a highly skilled pediatric ENT specialist, experienced in treating children with a range of ear, nose, and throat conditions.
Dr. Busino knows diagnosis can be challenging, since children may not clearly express symptoms, but she excels at working with young patients to make accurate diagnoses. The clinic’s welcoming atmosphere, along with her calm and gentle approach, helps put both children and parents at ease.
During the appointment, Dr. Busino will carefully examine your child’s symptoms and medical history. She’ll explain everything clearly, providing a treatment plan that might include simple interventions like nasal sprays or more advanced options like surgery if necessary. The team at ENT Associates of San Diego is supportive, making sure all your questions are answered and that your child feels comfortable throughout the process.
Meet Dr. Rowley S. Busino
Dr. Busino is a board-certified otolaryngologist with a dedicated focus on pediatric care. She completed her specialized Fellowship in Pediatric Otolaryngology at the University of California, San Diego/Rady Children’s Hospital. Her extensive training began at the University of Michigan, followed by medical education at Albany Medical College and professional residency training in New Jersey.
Dr. Busino is affiliated with several premier healthcare institutions, including Rady Children’s Hospital, Sharp Grossmont, and Scripps Physicians Medical Group, ensuring her patients receive seamless, high-quality care.
Benefits of Pediatric ENT Care
- Early diagnosis to prevent speech and developmental delays
- Child-focused evaluation and gentle care
- Accurate diagnosis of complex ear, nose, and throat conditions
- Personalized treatment plans for children of all ages
- Access to both medical and surgical ENT solutions when needed
Pediatric ENT Frequently Asked Questions
Schedule a Pediatric ENT Consultation
If you’re looking for a compassionate and approachable child ENT specialist in La Mesa, CA, Dr. Busino may be the right fit for you and your family. Contact ENT Associates of San Diego for pediatric ENT information and to set up your child’s first appointment.
