Air pollution can cause ENT problems in children, early symptoms parents should not ignore

Children are more vulnerable to pollution-related woes, because they breathe more air per kilogram of body weight than adults do. (Picture Credit: Pexels)

ENT ailments are described as the most frequent health issues pertaining to children because of increased pollution and indoor lifestyle. Parents can play a vital role in protecting their child from chronic ENT diseases by early recognition of warning signs and prevention.

ENT problems have been on the rise in children, which have converted recurrent infections into frequent health conditions. Children with frequent colds, nasal obstruction, sore throat, earache and hearing problems are frequently observed at present in paediatric practice. One of the biggest contributors to this phenomenon is the increasing air pollution along with contemporary indoor living. The environment had changed, and children are more exposed than before to unhealthy outdoor air pollutants like dust, smoke and vehicle emissions; they also remain indoors much longer periods in non-ventilated spaces.

The indoor air is often more polluted than the outside with dust, mould and pet dander due to air-conditioning systems and lack of fresh airflow. Secondly, too much screen time and minimal physical activity is lowering the resistance level in children, increasing chances of infection. “If the problems are frequent and go untreated for long, it can affect the speech development, listening (hearing), sleep patterns, attention and academic performance of children,” says Dr Aradhana Verma Senior Consultant – Otorhinolaryngology (ENT) & Paediatric Airway Disorders Care Multispeciality Hospital.

She says a better understanding of the link between environmental influences and ENT health is important.

How Pollution Is Causing ENT Disorders in Children

Air pollution has fine particles and poisonous gases, which is very irritative to the sensitiveness of nose, throat and ears. Because children breathe more air per kilogram of body weight than adults do, they are all the more vulnerable. Long-term exposure can lead to chronic nasal inflammation, sinus infections, allergic rhinitis and frequent throat infections. Pollutants also suppress the local defence mechanisms of the lungs, which promotes bacterial and viral growth. With time, this can result in recurrent ear infections and fluid accumulation in the middle ear, which could compromise hearing if left untreated.

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Indoor Lifestyles and Reduced Immunity

Outdoor play for children has been curtailed in modern day lifestyles. For a start, being stuck inside airconditioned buildings for much longer periods leaves them open to indoor allergens like dust and mould, as well as pet fur. Bad air ventilation can make these irritants to build up causing nasal allergies and difficulty in breathing. Poor physical activity further undermines the immune status and predisposes children to recurrent ENT infections. Too much screen time also interferes with sleep, which is essential for a properly functioning immune system.

These combine to form a downward spiral: repeat illness and slow recovery.

Early Warning Signs Parents Shouldn’t Take Lightly

It is important to detect it early to avoid complications. Parents can pay attention to continual nasal obstruction, repeated sneezing, open mouth during sleeping, snoring at night as well as frequent sore throat and earache or discharge. Hearing problems may cause Hearing impairment, slow speech and language development or inattention to spoken word. Throat irritation may be alluded to with chronic cough or hoarseness. If they persist for longer than two weeks, or come back regularly, and if none of the following ENT diseases isn't associated with them---they shouldn't be treated as trivial infections that would go away by themselves.

What Parents Can Do at Home to Prevent It

It is important to improve air quality in your home. Regular cleaning and airing out in addition to the use of air purifiers can help contain indoor pollutants. Outdoor play is promoted in non-toxic and less polluted environments which can help boost immunity. Good hygiene, hydration and consumption of a diet rich in fruits and veggies all contribute to good lung health. Immune function is also boosted by sleeping enough and limiting screen time.

Do-It-Yourself Cures

Simple home remedies — like breathing in steam or using salt water sprays for your nostrils when your doctor suggests this — can help ease mild symptoms.

When to Ask for Medical Assistance and Prevent Complications

In the case that ENT symptoms do not resolve, worsen or impact patient’s activities of daily living, a consultation with an Otolaryngologist is recommended. Persistent ear infections can cause hearing loss, and untreated nasal obstruction can interfere with sleep and facial development. It was pointed out that an early medical examination can provide a correct diagnosis and facilitate timely management, which can in turn prevent long-term sequelae.

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Air pollution irritates the delicate lining of the nose, throat and ears in children, making them more prone to infections, allergies and breathing discomfort.

Common issues include allergic rhinitis, sinus infections, sore throat, tonsillitis, frequent colds, ear infections and worsening of asthma-related symptoms.

Children breathe faster, spend more time outdoors and have developing immune systems, which makes them more sensitive to polluted air.

Yes. Polluted air can lead to nasal congestion and blocked Eustachian tubes, increasing the risk of fluid build-up and ear infections.

Pollution can intensify allergic reactions by inflaming nasal passages, leading to sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and blocked sinuses.