Conveniently located to serve San Diego

Occasionally, children will require the assistance of a pediatric ENT 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.

Common Pediatric ENT Conditions

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.

Hearing Loss

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.

Sinusitis (Sinus Infection)

Sinus infections in kids are often linked to frequent colds and allergies. Early diagnosis via a physical exam or allergy testing is essential to prevent complications. Treatments typically include nasal sprays, antibiotics, and sometimes surgery to improve drainage.

Tonsillitis

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 sometimes throat swabs. Treatments may include antibiotics for bacterial cases, while recurring tonsillitis may require a tonsillectomy.

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 issues.

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 is supportive, making sure all your questions are answered and that your child feels comfortable throughout the process.

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.

 

Feel Your Best. Be Your Best.

Contact Us

Online Patient Portal
La Mesa Location

5565 Grossmont Center Dr

Bldg. 3, Suites 101 & 154

La Mesa, CA 91942

(619) 464-3353

Chula Vista Location

2060 Otay Lakes Road, Suite # 140

Chula Vista, CA 91913

(619) 482-0565

Escondido Location

1955 Citracado Pkwy Ste 303

Escondido, CA 92027

(760) 294-1846