When to See an ENT for Your Child's Ear Infections

Ear infections are one of the most common childhood illnesses, and for most kids, they’re nothing to worry about. But when they keep coming back or don’t seem to fully go away, it might be time to see a specialist. 

That’s where Raj Bhayani, MD, comes in. As a highly trained ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor, Dr. Bhayani at the New York Institute of Otolaryngology and Aesthetic Surgery knows when your child’s ear infections might need more than a round of antibiotics and which treatments can help. Here are some signs you may need to bring your child in for an appointment.

Frequent or recurrent ear infections 

If your child seems to get ear infections as often as they get colds, something deeper could be going on. Recurrent infections are typically defined as three or more in six months or four or more in a year. These frequent infections can cause long-term inflammation, fluid buildup, and even hearing problems. 

Dr. Bhayani can evaluate why infections keep returning, whether it’s enlarged adenoids, allergies, or a structural issue, and recommend the best next steps. 

Persistent fluid or hearing problems 

After an ear infection clears, some children continue to have fluid buildup behind the eardrum. This can muffle hearing and delay speech or language development. 

Watch for signs such as: 

• Turning up the TC or not responding when called
• Speech delays or unclear pronunciation
• Complaints of ear pressure or “fullness” 

An ENT can perform a quick hearing test and determine if ear tubes might help drain the fluid and prevent future infections. 

Ear pain that doesn’t go away 

Most ear infections improve within a few days of treatment. If your child’s ear pain, drainage, or fever lingers, it may signal a more resistant infection or a different issue altogether. 

Possible causes include: 

• Chronic middle ear infections 
• A ruptured eardrum
• Swimmer’s ear or sinus-related inflammation

Our team can use specialized tools to see deeper into the ear and tailor treatment to the exact cause — something general antibiotics can’t always address. 

Structural or developmental concerns 

Sometimes, recurring ear infections are linked to anatomical differences, like: 

• Enlarged adenoids or tonsils
• Narrow Eustachian tubes
• Sinus congestion or allergies 

Dr. Bhayani can identify these contributing factors and suggest minimally invasive treatments or surgery, if needed. In some cases, simple solutions (like addressing allergies) can make a big difference in preventing ear infections. 

When to schedule an ENT appointment 

You don’t have to wait for chronic issues to develop before you get help. 

Schedule a visit with our team if your child: 

• Has multiple ear infections in a short period
• Experiences lingering fluid or hearing problems
• Has ear pain that doesn’t improve after antibiotics
• Has speech or developmental delays

Early intervention can protect your child’s hearing, improve quality of life, and reduce the stress of recurring illness for both of you. 

While ear infections are common, persistent or severe cases deserve expert attention. Dr. Bhayani can uncover the root cause, provide long-lasting relief, and help your child hear, speak, and thrive comfortably again. 

If you’re ready to learn, contact us to schedule your appointment with Dr. Bhayani in either Brooklyn or Queens today.