Back-to-School ENT Tips: What Houston Parents Should Know

By Dr. Madeleine Samuelson Herman, MD

Back-to-School ENT Tips from a Houston ENT Specialist

As the school year kicks off, most parents are thinking about supplies, schedules, and sleep routines. But one essential area often overlooked? Your child’s ear, nose, and throat (ENT) health.

At SCENT Houston – Sinus Center & ENT Specialists of Houston, we see a spike in pediatric visits every back-to-school season—because classroom germs, allergens, and sleep disruptions can quickly affect your child’s ability to focus and feel their best.

Here are some ENT-focused tips to help your child start the year off healthy:

1. Watch for Frequent Ear Infections

Children are especially prone to middle ear infections (otitis media), especially during the fall and winter months.Signs include:

• Tugging at the ears

• Trouble hearing or responding

• Irritability or poor sleep

• Fever or fluid drainage

If your child has multiple ear infections per year, it may be time to consider a visit with an ENT specialist to discuss long-term solutions like ear tubes.

2. Get Ahead of Allergies

Houston’s high mold, pollen, and ragweed counts make seasonal allergies a year-round concern. Symptoms can impact classroom performance, sleep, and concentration.Look out for:

• Sneezing, itchy nose, or watery eyes

• Constant nasal congestion

• Mouth breathing or snoring

Allergy testing and treatment can help your child breathe and sleep better—leading to better focus during the school day.

3. Don’t Ignore Snoring or Sleep Issues

Does your child snore, mouth breathe, or seem constantly tired even after a full night’s sleep? It could be related to enlarged tonsils or adenoids, nasal obstruction, or even pediatric sleep apnea.

Sleep disturbances can affect mood, attention span, and academic performance. A pediatric ENT evaluation can help identify the cause and offer effective treatments.

4. Pay Attention to Sore Throats

While occasional sore throats are common, recurring strep or tonsillitis might signal something more.See an ENT if your child has:

• 5 or more sore throats per year

• Difficulty swallowing or speaking

• Persistent swollen tonsils

Your provider may recommend tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy if infections or breathing issues persist.

5. Book an ENT Check-Up Before School Starts

An ENT evaluation is a smart step if your child has ongoing congestion, hearing issues, or recurring infections. At SCENT Houston, we offer:

• Pediatric ear, nose, and throat evaluations

• Hearing tests

• Sleep and snoring assessments

• In-office treatments for chronic ENT conditions

  
  

Let’s Set Your Child Up for a Healthy School Year

Don’t let earaches, allergies, or sleep issues hold your child back. Book a back-to-school ENT evaluation today and give your child the best chance at a successful, symptom-free year.

📞 Call SCENT Houston or schedule an appointment online to meet with one of our board-certified ENT specialists.

SCENT Houston – Sinus Center & ENT Specialists of Houston

📍 Serving families in Houston, Bellaire, Memorial, West University, and surrounding areas.