In this blog I will be covering the following frequently asked questions:

  1.  Tips for preventing ear disease in children. 
  2.  The link between sinus and overall well-being and,
  3.  Voice care for professionals.

How to prevent ear disease in children?

Preventing ear infections in children is complex as there is an increased risk if the child is allergic, young, where there is family history, where there is a history of previous ear disease and if the child is in a day care facility.  Unfortunately, not much can be done apart from allergy sprays, and to treat an upper respiratory tract infection with Saline and nasal decongestants early.  It is obviously advisable to avoid enclosed, crowded spaces especially where there are other ill children.

Creche syndrome often cannot be avoided due to both parents working.  There are two vaccines that can be given to decrease incidents of middle ear disease, these are the HIB and the Pneumovax.  Obviously, nutrition and vitamin supplementation is also important. 

What is the link between sinus health and over well-being?

There is a SNOTT 22 score (Sino Nasal Outcome Test).  Here there are a list of 22 different symptoms scoring between 1 and 5.  Normal is about 20.  This is a good measurement to assess your nasal health pre- and post-operatively or post-medical treatment.  It can be seen that poor sinus health effects every aspect of your well-being including sleep, concentration, mood, ears, throat and other nasal and sinus symptoms, such as, blocking, nasal discharge and facial pain. 

Thirdly, with regards to voice care for professionals:

Adequate humidity and hydration is important together with avoiding smoking and areas of high pollution.  Voice control and voice training is also important also with the use of a microphone and amplification.  It is also important to decrease stress and acid reflux if present.  One should also seek early diagnosis and treatment should the voice become hoarse.  An Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist will look at the vocal cords using a flexible nasopharyngolaryngoscope.