Can Water Get Trapped in Your Sinuses?

Confused about balloon sinuplasty? We debunk common myths and reveal the facts. Find out if this minimally invasive procedure is right for your chronic sinusitis. Schedule a consultation with our expert ENT doctors near you.

If your child is tugging at their ear, crying more than usual, or having trouble sleeping, an ear infection might be to blame. While they can be painful, most ear infections are easily treatable and rarely serious. Here's what you need to know about treating your child's ear infection safely and effectively. What Causes Ear Infections in Children? Ear infections, also known as otitis media, occur when bacteria or viruses infect the middle ear, the space behind the eardrum. Children are more prone to them because: Their Eustachian tubes (which drain fluid from the ears) are shorter and more horizontal, making drainage difficult. Their immune systems are still developing. Colds, allergies, or respiratory infections can lead to fluid buildup, creating a breeding ground for infection. Symptoms of an Ear Infection in Kids Since young children can’t always describe their pain, watch for these signs: Tugging or pulling at the ear Fussiness, crying more than usual Trouble sleeping or lying down flat Fever (often between 100.5°F–104°F / 38°C–40°C) Fluid draining from the ear (may indicate a ruptured eardrum) Difficulty hearing or responding to sounds How to Treat Your Child’s Ear Infection at Home While some ear infections need antibiotics, many improve with home care . Try these safe, doctor-approved methods: 1. Warm Compress Place a warm (not hot) washcloth against the ear for 10–15 minutes. This helps relieve pain and reduce inflammation. 2. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can ease pain and fever. Never give aspirin to children due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome. 3. Hydration & Rest Encourage fluids to help thin mucus and keep your child upright to reduce pressure. 4. Olive Oil Drops (If No Rupture) A few drops of warm (not hot) olive oil may soothe irritation. 5. Elevate the Head During Sleep Prop up the crib mattress slightly to help fluid drain. When to See a Doctor Seek medical attention if: Symptoms last more than 2–3 days Fever exceeds 102°F (39°C) Pus or blood drains from the ear Severe pain or hearing loss Your child is under 6 months old (higher risk of complications) How to Prevent Future Ear Infections You can reduce the risk with these tips: Breastfeed if possible (boosts immunity) Hold babies upright during bottle feeding Keep up with vaccinations (flu & pneumococcal shots help) Avoid secondhand smoke ü Teach kids proper nose-blowing (gently, one nostril at a time) Expert Pediatric ENT Care in Rochester & Waterford, MI If your child suffers from frequent ear infections, hearing difficulties, or other ear-related concerns, our experts at ENT Care of Michigan are here to help. Our team—including Dr. Eric Succar, Dr. Marwan Boulis, Dr. Anthony Di Ponio, audiologist Lori Martin, and Kalee Easter —provides compassionate, expert care for kids and adults. Call 248-254-8900 to schedule an appointment. Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure long-term ear health!

Struggling with chronic sinusitis or Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD)? Learn the key differences, symptoms, and treatments for these conditions—and when to see an ENT specialist for lasting relief. Serving patients in Michigan

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Have you ever noticed a lump or swelling on the side of your neck and wondered what it could be? Chances are, you were dealing with a swollen lymph node. While this can be alarming, it’s usually a sign that your body is fighting off something. Let’s explore what causes swollen lymph nodes in the neck, why they happen, and when you might need to see a doctor.

If you’ve been struggling with persistent nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through your nose, or frequent sinus infections, a deviated septum might be the cause. For many people, deviated septum surgery can be a life-changing procedure. But what exactly does this surgery involve? How do you know if you need it? Read on to learn more.

Have you ever wondered who to turn to when you or a loved one begins experiencing hearing difficulties? That’s where an audiologist steps in. But what exactly does an audiologist do, and how do you know when it’s time to see one? Keep reading to find out.

Have you ever experienced neck pain or stiffness along with sinus problems and wondered if the two are connected? Studies show that nearly 84% of people with sinus headaches also report neck pain, and about 68% say their neck pain spreads up into their head. So, can a sinus infection actually cause neck pain and stiffness? Let’s explore how they’re linked, why it happens, and what you should know.