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Children's ENT checkup
pediatric ENT · children's ENT doctor · child ear exam · kids ear nose and throat doctor
An ENT doctor examines your child's ears, nose, and throat. The exam is usually short and does not hurt.
For frequent colds and ear infections, snoring, mouth breathing, ear or throat pain, poor hearing, and routine checkups.
⏱ Duration: usually 15 to 30 minutes
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Talk to your child. Tell your child the doctor will look at their ears and throat with a little flashlight.
- Timing. Best to come when your child is not hungry or sleepy.
What to bring
- Your child's documents
- Past medical reports and test results
- A toy
How it goes
- The doctor asks you questions
- Your child sits on your lap, and you gently hold them
- The doctor checks the throat with a tongue depressor
- The nose and ears are examined
- Sometimes hearing is tested
- The doctor explains what was found and gives treatment
What you'll feel
- The tongue depressor may cause gagging
- Little ones often cry from being held. That is normal
Afterwards
- Follow the treatment plan
- Come back for a follow-up if the doctor says so
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Your child has trouble breathing, cannot swallow, or is drooling: call emergency services
- High fever and severe ear pain, or swelling behind the ear: see a doctor urgently
Common questions
Do adenoids need to be removed if my child snores?
Not always. The doctor will examine your child and say what they need.
How do I hold my child during the exam?
Sit them on your lap. Wrap one arm around their body and arms, and hold their head with the other hand.