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Ear, nose, and throat disorders are extremely common in children. Ear infections occur almost as often as the common cold. They can occur behind the eardrum (in the middle ear, otitis media) or in front of the eardrum (in the outer ear, otitis externa (see Outer Ear Disorders: Introduction). Throat infections are not usually serious, but they make children uncomfortable and can lead to missed school days and multiple doctor visits. Other disorders, such as hearing deficits and neck masses, affect fewer children but are potentially serious. In general, any abnormality of a child's ear, nose, or throat that does not improve within several days should be evaluated by a doctor.
Last full review/revision February 2003
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