Dr Low Mei-Yi
Otorhinolaryngologist
Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) issues are common in children and can have a significant impact on their growth, development and overall well-being. From recurrent ear infections to breathing difficulties, nasal allergy, sinus issues and snoring, these conditions can affect a child's ability to hear, sleep, and communicate effectively.
At Parkway East Hospital, our dedicated paediatric ENT service is led by a compassionate team of specialists, including Dr Low Meiyi and Dr Dawn Teo. As mothers of young children themselves, they understand the importance of personalised care and recognise that every child is unique.
We believe that treating children requires not only medical expertise but also a family-centred approach. Our team is committed to providing both medical care and emotional support, ensuring that children and their families feel comfortable and reassured throughout their treatment journey.
Allergic rhinitis occurs when the immune system overreacts to airborne allergens like pollen or dust. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion. Treatment involves managing symptoms with antihistamines, nasal sprays, and allergen avoidance strategies to improve the child’s comfort.
Sinusitis is an inflammation or infection of the sinus cavities, often causing recurrent nasal discharge, nasal congestion, facial pain, and headaches. Treatment may include antibiotics for bacterial infections, nasal irrigation, or surgery in more severe, chronic cases to drain the sinuses and restore normal function.
Snoring in children is often a sign of obstructed airways, typically caused by enlarged tonsils or adenoids. If untreated, it can lead to obstructive sleep apnoea, which impacts neurological development, cardiac health, attention span, as well as overall growth and development. Treatment may involve medical therapy or a surgical procedure to open the airway and improve breathing.
Recurrent infections of the tonsils can cause sore throats, difficulty swallowing, and fever. For severe or frequent episodes, a tonsillectomy (surgical removal of the tonsils) may be recommended to prevent future infections and improve quality of life.
Ear infections are common in young children and can cause ear pain, fever, and difficulty hearing. While many resolve on their own, recurrent infections may require treatment with antibiotics or the surgical placement of ear ventilation tubes to prevent future complications and hearing loss.
Hearing loss can result from a variety of causes, including infections, congenital conditions, or earwax buildup. Early detection and treatment are crucial for ensuring normal speech and language development. Treatment may involve hearing aids, surgery, or medical management depending on the underlying cause.
Excess ear wax can block the ear canal, causing discomfort and hearing problems. Our paediatric ENT specialists can safely remove the impacted wax using gentle methods, relieving symptoms and improving hearing.
Hoarseness in children can result from overuse of the voice, infections, or more serious conditions affecting the vocal cords. Treatment typically involves voice rest, hydration, or in some cases, surgery to address any structural abnormalities contributing to the hoarseness.