Hi mga Mommies and Daddies of Bacolod! As a pediatrician here for over a decade, I know EENT (eye, ear, nose, and throat) problems are a common concern. Kids are prone to these issues, and it can be tricky to know when a simple home remedy will suffice and when you need to bring them to my clinic or another trusted pediatrician here in Bacolod. This article will walk you through four common EENT problems I frequently see and give you practical advice. Early intervention is so important for our kids’ health, so let’s get started!
1. Ear Infections (Otitis Media): The Common Culprit
Ear infections, especially in younger children, are a frequent reason for clinic visits. Here in Bacolod, with the hot weather and kids swimming a lot, we see our fair share.
What to Watch For:
- Pulling or tugging at the ear
- Ear pain (babies might be extra fussy and crying more than usual)
- Fever
- Fluid draining from the ear (can be yellow, white, or even bloody)
- Difficulty sleeping
- Irritability
What You Can Do at Home (Before Seeing a Doctor):
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (like paracetamol or ibuprofen, always following the correct dosage for your child’s age and weight) can help manage pain and fever.
- A warm compress applied to the ear can sometimes provide comfort.
When to See a Doctor:
- If your child is under 6 months old and you suspect an ear infection, see a doctor immediately. Babies this young can get sick very quickly.
- If your child is older than 6 months, and they have a fever and ear pain, or fluid draining from the ear, it’s time to see a doctor.
- If symptoms don’t improve after 24-48 hours of careful home care.
Sore Throats, Runny Noses, and Eye Irritations
Let’s look at some other common issues.
2. Sore Throat (Pharyngitis): The Scratchy Discomfort
Sore throats are another frequent visitor. They can be caused by viruses or bacteria, and it’s sometimes hard to tell the difference.
What to Watch For:
- Sore throat (pain when swallowing)
- Fever
- Red tonsils (sometimes with white spots)
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Runny nose and cough (if it’s viral)
What You Can Do at Home:
- For older children who can safely gargle, warm salt water gargles can be soothing.
- Plenty of cool liquids!
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (again, following dosage instructions).
When to See a Doctor:
- If your child is very young (especially under 3 years old) and has a sore throat, it’s best to get them checked.
- If the sore throat is severe, making swallowing very difficult.
- If there are white spots on the tonsils (could be strep throat, needing antibiotics).
- If the fever is high or doesn’t respond to medication.
3. Runny Nose and Congestion (Rhinitis): The Drip and Sniffle
Runny noses and congestion are a staple of childhood, especially with Bacolod’s sometimes unpredictable weather.
What to Watch For:
- Runny nose (clear, white, yellow, or green discharge)
- Stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Cough (sometimes from post-nasal drip)
What You Can Do at Home:
- Saline nasal drops or spray can help loosen mucus. For babies, a bulb syringe can gently suction mucus.
- Lots of fluids!
- A cool mist humidifier can be helpful.
When to See a Doctor:
- If your baby is under 3 months old and has any fever, call your doctor. Babies this young can get sick quickly.
- If the nasal discharge is thick, green, and accompanied by fever or facial pain (could be sinusitis).
- If congestion makes it hard for your baby to breathe or feed.
- If symptoms don’t improve after a week or two.
4. Eye Problems: The Irritated View
Eye problems can be worrisome. Conjunctivitis (pinkeye) is a common one.
What to Watch For:
- Redness in the white of the eye
- Discharge (clear, yellow, or green)
- Itchy or burning eyes
- Eyelid swelling
What You Can Do at Home:
- Clean the eye with a clean, warm, damp cloth, wiping from the inside corner to the outside. Use a fresh cloth for each wipe.
When to See a Doctor:
- If your newborn has eye discharge.
- If redness and discharge don’t improve with home care after a day or two.
- If the discharge is thick and colored (yellow or green).
- If your child has vision changes.
Keeping Kids in Bacolod Healthy
Remember, Mommies and Daddies, this is just general information. Always consult your pediatrician here in Bacolod if you’re concerned. We’re here to help keep your kids healthy and happy!
