ENT Care SWFL

05/27/2025

Beat the Summer Blues: ENT Care for Swimmer's Ear
Don't Let Swimmer's Ear Ruin the Fun

As the summer months approach, kids are excited to spend more time splashing around in the pool, lake, or ocean. However, with all the fun comes the risk of swimmer's ear, a common condition that can cause discomfort, pain, and even infection. At ENT Care, our experienced ENT specialists are here to help parents keep their kids safe and healthy all summer long.

What is Swimmer's Ear?

Swimmer's ear, also known as otitis externa, is an infection or inflammation of the outer ear canal. It's often caused by water getting trapped in the ear canal, creating a warm and moist environment that's perfect for bacteria or fungi to grow. Swimmer's ear can be painful and uncomfortable, and if left untreated, can lead to more serious complications.

Symptoms of Swimmer's Ear

If your child is experiencing any of the following symptoms, they may have swimmer's ear:

Ear pain: Pain or discomfort in the ear, especially when pulling on the outer ear or pushing on the tragus (the small flap of cartilage in front of the ear canal).
Itching or redness: Itching or redness in the ear canal.
Discharge: Yellow or greenish discharge from the ear.
Hearing loss: Temporary hearing loss or muffled hearing.

Preventing Swimmer's Ear

While swimmer's ear can be a common problem for kids who love to swim, there are steps parents can take to help prevent it:

Dry the ears: After swimming or bathing, gently dry the ears with a towel.
Use earplugs: Consider using earplugs or earmuffs when swimming to help keep water out of the ears.
Avoid sticking objects in the ears: Avoid using cotton swabs (Q-tips) or other objects to clean the ears, as this can push wax and bacteria further into the ear canal.

Treatment Options

If your child does develop swimmer's ear, our ENT specialists can provide effective treatment options to help alleviate symptoms and clear up the infection. These may include:

Antibiotic ear drops: To help clear up bacterial infections.
Pain relief: To help manage pain and discomfort.
Ear cleaning: To gently clean the ear canal and remove debris.

If your child is experiencing symptoms of swimmer's ear, don't hesitate to schedule a consultation with our experienced ENT specialists. We'll work with you to develop a treatment plan that's tailored to your child's specific needs and get them back to enjoying the summer fun in no time. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and keep your child's ears healthy and happy all summer long!

04/02/2025

Are seasonal allergies taking over your household? With pollen allergens extremely high in SWFL right now, it's no wonder our kiddos (and let's be real, us too) are suffering!

At ENT Care SWFL, we're here to help your whole family breathe easier! Our allergy services include:

- Allergy testing to identify the culprits behind those pesky symptoms
- Customized allergy shots to build tolerance and reduce reactions
- Sublingual allergy therapy for a convenient, at-home treatment option

Don't let allergies hold you back! Schedule an appointment with us today and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you and crew!

*Poll time!* What's the worst allergy symptom your family is dealing with right now?

A) Congestion and stuffiness
B Itchy, watery eyes
C) Sneezing fits
D) Something else (share in the comments!)

04/02/2025

At ENT Cares of SWFL, we're committed to providing comprehensive care for your larynx aka voicebox. If you're experiencing voice changes, breathing difficulties, or throat discomfort, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with us!

Did you know that ENT Cares SWFL offers flexible laryngoscope procedures in the comfort of our office?

A flexible laryngoscope is a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light on the end which allows our doctors to visualize the voice box and vocal cords. Check it out!

This procedure helps us to:

Examine for abnormalities, nodules, or polyps.

Diagnose conditions affecting the voice, such as hoarseness or vocal cord paralysis.

Monitor the health of the larynx and vocal cords.

04/01/2025

Are you preparing to jet set, but worried about ear congestion?

As an ENT specialist, I've seen many patients struggle with ear discomfort during flights. But don't worry, I've got some valuable tips to share with you!

Why is it important to clear your ears during flights?

During takeoff and landing, the air pressure in the plane cabin changes. As the plane ascends, the air pressure decreases, and as it descends, the air pressure increases. If your ears are congested, this pressure change can cause pain or discomfort. When a plane takes off or lands, the air pressure changes can cause your ears to feel plugged or painful. This is because the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, helps regulate air pressure in the ear. If the tube is blocked or not functioning properly, the air pressure change can cause discomfort.

Tips:
Swallowing: helps to open the Eustachian tube and allow air to enter the middle ear.

Yawning: Yawning also helps to open the Eustachian tube.

Valsalva maneuver: Pinch your nose shut, close your mouth, and blow gently through your nose. Swallow while pinching your nose shut.

Chewing gum: Chewing gum can help stimulate saliva production, which can help clear your ears.

Nasal decongestants: Using nasal decongestants before flying can help reduce congestion.

Stay hydrated.

By following these tips, you can help reduce ear discomfort during flights and ensure a more enjoyable travel experience. Share your own tips or experiences with ear congestion during flights in the comments below!

03/26/2025

Tiny patients welcome!!

Expert ENT Care of SWFL cares for even the smallest ears, nose, and throats. Book a pediatric appointment for your little love!

03/26/2025

03/19/2025

Are sinus problems holding you back?

Our expert ENT team of doctors and nurses is here to help! With state-of-the-art in-house procedures and treatments as well as compassionate care, we'll get you breathing easy again. Learn more about our ENT Services. www.DrMarkMontgomery.com