I Need Some Help!

Dear K.,

I know you want your son to be comfortable and pain-free as soon as possible, but I know you also want to do what's best for your son. Doctors are still practicing and are still men who want to be in charge and fix the problem. That doesn't mean that they have the best answers. They are also "brain-washed" by pharmaceutical companies. Where I am leading with this is that I know that the symptoms you are describing are caused by allergies and reactions to toxins. If you would take the time to research, talk with a naturopathic physician and possibly a doctor who works with alternative med's and homeopathics, you would learn a great deal and free your son of dis-ease without cutting up his body. The body is designed to be free of disease if not being bombarded with chemicals and toxins. Try eliminating all foods with preservatives, dyes and chemicals. Give him only foods that come directly from God's hands. Also, many of us are showing allergic reactions to wheat and corn (and other foods). Interesting that these are the foods that are being genetically altered to improve their growth rates and disease resistance (to pump up the profits for the big corporations). In other words, anything that man has altered is not natural. The body doesn't recognize these foods and so we don't absorb the nutrients we need, thus the immune system is compromised. Also, cleaning chemicals and off-gassing from new furniture, bedding, cabinets and carpeting (anything that has chemicals added) have the same affect on our bodies. Even the permanent markers have chemicals that cause the brain to swell. I can't be in the same room with a white board without showing the same symptoms as your son. Also, I react to the smells in the stores near any soaps and detergents. That's why I showed signs of learning disabilities. Bah-humbug, I'm perfectly normal today eliminating chemicals and eating natural, organic foods. Be careful though, the organic farms today are being bought out by Phillip-Morris and R.J.Reynolds. These tobacco companies have been legally proven to manipulate and lie to us. Also, we are importing foods from third-world countries who are using pesticides that are now illegal in this country. So, best to buy organic and pesticide-free foods from local growers.

Go on-line and research the "Feingold Diet" and the "Price-Pottenger Nutrition Foundation." There are many more resources for you there.

Warm regards, C. (mother of 4 kids, 2 grandkids with same problems, solved without surgery).

P.S. My 50 yr old husband had his adenoids and tonsils out at 4 and seemed better for a while. But, his entire life he's been suffering miserably with stuffed-up nose, sinus and stomach problems. He had trouble sleeping also. When I changed his diet, put an ionizing air filter in our house, removed all cleaning chemicals, used natural products, and used homeopathics, he has been symptom-free and much more comfortable. In our culture, we have tendency to want a "quick-fix". That works for the short-term, but please take a look at how removing organs that are vital for total physiologic functioning would impact his entire life. There are more intelligent and reasonable solutions. Do your homework and make the best decision for the "big picture." Good Luck!!!

My son had the identical procedure. In our house we called it the "oil, lube and filter job." IT ABSOLUTELY CHANGED MY SON'S LIFE!!! Pre surgery he was prone to non specific high fevers, running nose, sore throats etc. Most importantly he had a 30% reduction in his hearing because of the fluid in his ears. Once the tonsils and adenoids came out and the tubes went in he was sick significantly less. Most importantly my boy could hear. Honestly, I wish I had done the procedure earlier as his speech is still a little muddled (he had surgery at 5). I would absolutely do it again in a heartbeat. In fact, we did about two years after his first set of ear tubes. We noticed he wasn't "listening" in school and sure enough a hearing test confirmed a significant reduction in hearing. Fortunately we had a very supportive teacher who understood his lack of attention was medically based. His second set cleared up his hearing issues and he is the top of his class. He still doesn't "listen" on occassion, but that's more to do with the fact that he's become a stubborn 8 year old than his actual hearing. lol. Good luck!

Please do not let the doctor cut anything out before you look into the possible causes of your son's illness. When I was young, the doctor told my parents that I should have my tonsils taken out. Luckily, my parent's did not go along with what the ignorant doctor was saying. Please look into the possibility that your son may be allergic to wheat and/or milk. If you would like to speak with a wonderful herbalist to get some advice, please call Nanette Gil in Ventura: ###-###-####. Part of the week she is in Bakersfield: ###-###-####. I highly recommend Nanette, who I have known for close to 20 years. Over the years she has been a great help to my family and friends.

I don't think people even look any more to see what part these body parts play in serving the body.

I am with the people who save body parts at all costs, but this is a difficult one what with the hearing loss. It would be extremely tempting to me too to just rip out the offending part, but I am always the type to wonder what is causing this problem.

I tend to handle all of my daughter's ailments with alternative medicine, especially homeopathy, which is probably why she is amazingly healthy despite my horrible pregnancy.

I wish you the best in whatever you decide, it's very difficult being in this position as a mom and you don't want your children to suffer.

I am a Mom on mamasource and am also a doctor of Chinese medicine. My husband and I practice on the West side. We have found that surgery can often be avoided by working with supplements and herbs. Using a combination between improved diet and supplementation can increase general health and immunity to effect very positive changes in the the main problem, in your son's case, his ears. We see many children with problems such as allergies, asthma, chronic colds and flus, as well as chronic ear problems. These things can be treated very effectively and after treatment, the child's health is greatly improved on all fronts.
Our clinic is bomamed.com, you can go there and see what you think. There is also another site, but does not directly pertain to your situation, that is ickids.org.

M. B.

My son had a similar issue when he was 3, except I wanted him to get tubes and his ENT thought he did not need them. They removed his adenoids and Tonsils and we were still having issues with fluid in the ears. After 4 months or so we had to go back and have the tubes put in - another surgery. After the tubes we did not have any issues by the time he was 6 he was taking swimming lessons and now at 10 we have not had any flare ups. The tubes are alot of work but my son felt so much better it was totally worth it!

Hello,
I would have the tubes put in. It would clear up the immediate problem and it will not hurt anything. If all three are offered, why not do all that you can for him?
K.

Hi K.,
I had tubes in my ears as a child (I am now 41) for the same thing-it made a huge difference, especially in being able to hear the teacher and my friends. We all experience hearing loss as we age and it can be very isolating. Don't hesitate to have the tubes placed. It can really be helpful and the longer the fluid is in there, the longer the time your child doesn't hear properly.

Put the tubes in while he's having everything else done. If he is only put to sleep once, it's better than having the whole experience repeated. Tubes are not that big of a deal, and if there's a posibility that they can help & are necessary, get it over with all at once. It's scary watching your child go through something like this, but the doctors are well trained, so trust them. My four-year-old has tubes. When he was put under, I was with him and held his hand. He was frantically crying and totally scared himself. I wasn't prepared for his reaction and once he was out, I cried & was quite shaky. I wanted to share that with you to prepare you a bit. Everything went very smoothly and he hasn't had any problems with the tubes. Good luck and don't worry (though it comes with being a mom)!

I don't know to much about the tonsil thing. My husband had those taken out when he was two. I had the problem with ear infections and hearing loss. I woul always get a second opinion. My uncle is a old school dr andhe told my parents no to tubes because that just is another hole for infection to get into and she will out grow this I think adnionds dissappear or something...and yes they did nothing was done. I had to wear earplugs when I swam and everything. Don't know if this helped, but I wish you the best

I cannot address the medical side of wether or not the adenoids are keeping the fluid in, your doctor can better answer that but, hearing loss is a big concern for a five year old. His language and speech development are key at this young age. If his hearing loss is affecting his speech and language then your main concern should be getting his hearing back on track. I know it can be a hassle to keep water out of the ears, with tubes in, but there are many products now that help you in that regard. If you choose not to have the tubes in and the fluid and hearing loss continue, waste no time in getting the issue cleared. Best to you! S.

My son is now 18yrs old. He had his adenoids removed at age 13 and it helped quite a bit. Before the surgery he had tubes in his ears but they did not stay in very long. Recently we were told that he has an eustachian tube defect. The defect does not allow air to circulate behind his ear drum. So once again we are going to try a more permanent tube. Also due to the number of ear infections and eardrum ruptures he needs to have his eardrum replaced.

I hope the surgery works and tubes are not needed but the only way you will know is to wait and see.

Hi K.:

If it were my child, before making any decisions about surgery and tubes, I would consult with an naet certified doctor, in order to determine whether the fluid is being produced as a result of things your son may developed an allergy to. Because if the fluid production is due to an allergy(s) then the allergies can be cured, which would halt the production of the fluid.

My suggestion to you is that you visit NAET.com, order and read the book "Say Good-Bye to Children's Allergies" and make an appointment to consult with an NAET certified doctor. I go to Dr. David Karaba in Fullerton and absolutely love him. My 11 month old grand daughter and 10 year old grand daughter also go to him. The baby was sick all the time due to fluid build up, had tubes, and then still kept getting sick and having mucous. We took her to Dr. Karaba and after eliminating her allergy to dust and dogs, she has not been sick (its the first time in her little life that she has gone more than a few days without antibiotics or pain medicine or antihisitmines.

His phone number is ###-###-####. One of the wonderful things about NAET is that for children or the infirm, they can be treated through a surrogate, i.e., you. Here is the description paragraph from the book information.

"Say Good-bye to Children’s Allergies
By - Devi S. Nambudripad, M.D., D.C., L.Ac., R.N., Ph.D.

In Say Good-bye to Children’s Allergies, Dr. Devi S. Nambudripad, the developer of NAET®, will help you understand your child’s illness and will assist you in finding the right help to achieve better health for your child. This book will show you how certain commonly used products in your foods and environment can cause health problems in your child; how you can test your child in your privacy of your own home using the Nambudripad’s Testing Techniques described in the book. This book will educate you how your child’s health problems can relate to allergy, a traditionally under-diagnosed or misdiagnosed condition; and, how allergies can manifest into myriad symptoms that might seem unrelated. The author also provides remedies for mild conditions of common childhood ailments arising from allergies and how to find help in assisting your child find the right help for serious problems such as, asthma, hay-fever, common colds, sinus problems, milk allergy, peanut allergy, sugar allergy, hives, gastritis, vomiting, colic for newborns, ear infections, irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, bronchitis, drug reactions, and many other conditions. Dr. Nambudripad explains how allergies are often the underlying causes to pediatric problems and how NAET® testing procedures and NAET® treatments can offer relief from these allergies. The book is supported by NAET® practitioners’ testimonials and patients’ success stories."

I would wait and see, my son needed to have his tonsils and adenoids out when he was two years old. He was having chronic pnuemonia, hand foot and mouth disease, etc...anything under the sun. Finally after he had his surgery he has been nearly sick free and he is now 6 years old. It has helped tremendously and he even sleeps better at night because he doesn't have the tonsils and adenoids obstructing his breathing passages! Good luck to you and your son!

Hi K.,

I had my adenoids out when I was three and it did very much help me. I probably should have had my tonsils out too only because my tonsillitis and strep throat continued. However my ear infections stopped pretty much completely, as told by my mom. Later when I was 19 I finally had my tonsils out. I was as good as new. I never did have tubes in my ears despite the monthly ear infections when I was little. Granted times have changed, but my advice would be to see how things go after the removal of the tonsils and the adenoids.

Good luck!

L. H.

K.,
I think getting his tonsils and adnoids out is great.
I did that with both of my children because they had ear infections all the time. I did not have the tubes put in
their ears. Now that your son has reached the age of 5 you will see a difference in that. the estation tube in their ear is so small when they are born , it gets plugged up easily. When they get older it falls down an allows their ears to drain better.
If it costs alot to have the tubes put in I would pass.
If its part of the procudure and while they are there get it done. Go ahead it won't hurt.
Buy lots of ice cream !!!
N.
Grandma of 2

I am a mother of 2 boys, and also work in the medical field. I feel that you should go ahead with the surgery, in the long run, your child will benefit him in the long run. I know its a hard decision to make, but think of the great outcome for your child. Or you can always go get a second opinion. That's another route you can take.

R. Y.

Putting tubes in your son's ears is a really easy procedure and is usually done on an outpatient basis. Taking tonsils and adnoids is a little more invasive and painful for the kids. When we had tubes put in our son's ears(he's now 15) the procedure was at 8am and by the afternoon, he was running around like nothing happened. When they are young, they recoup faster. We also had them put in our daughter (now 7) and she recovered within a day, easy. With the experiences behind me I would say if it makes you feel better, get a second opinion. There two doctors that have seen both our kids and are excellent: Dr. Jeffry Burns in Encino who is a pediatric ENT (conservative but very experienced) and Dr. Roberts in West Hills who is an Allergy/Asthma specialist. Dr. Roberts is also wonderful - doesn't necessarily believe allergy shots are the answer. I had chronic sinus infections when I started seeing him and he's had me free of them for 3 years now without antibiotics. I would check to see why your son keeps getting fluid in his ears. It is my experience that you need to know why that is happening first before you move on to the next step. It could just be allergies. There are other ways of dealing with that. Either way, I trust both of those doctors to give good, honest opinions. Hope that helps you.

Go see a chiropractor & have him/her work on your son a couple time per week for a couple months. It doesn't work every time but when my brother was younger they told us the same thing. Our family chiropractor asked us if he could work on him for a few months before we did the tube thing. His ear infections virtually stopped and tubes were never needed.

K. F
I would get a second opinion from a pediatrician not in the same office as this physician. Also, you might check a site like WebMD and see what they say there.
All for now.
R.

Hello K.. the only thing I can say is "get a second opinion"......M.

do it now, and get it over with,

my girl was 5 when this was done and she too has some hearing loss because of the fluid, it does not drain on it's own, whichi is why they put the tubes in

after this was done, she no longer went to the doctor every week for ear infections, or other illness that were related to this problem

K.,
Although my daughter didn't need to have her tonsils and adnoids removed, she did have to get tubes. The months and years following her minor surgery, I often heard myself saying to friends, "I wish I hadn't waited so long to get these in" (the doctor was the one who made us wait, BTW). It was miraculous. She went from being sick two times a month to rarely. My comment for you is this: why subject your son to an additional surgery to implant the tubes? He will have to be placed under a general anesthesia and that can have an effect on him. From experience, I say, do it all at the same time and prevent additional illness - listen to the doc - they know what they are talking about.

My son and daughter both had their tonsils and adenoids out at the same time. However, even though my son did not get many ear infections, he too had loss of hearing because the fluids were draining into his ears. I opted for the ear tubes. He has had no problems since then. The only down side to all of this is that it was difficult the last two summers when he wanted to swim. We always had to make sure that he had his ear plugs in and wore a head band to secure them. He has had the tubes in for the last two years. They were supposed to fall out by themselves within one year or so but he still has them so now I need to have them removed. However, my advice would be to listen to the Doctor and if he really needs the tubes, then you should do it.

Dear K.
I would talk to another Doctor about the tubes. If he says he needs the tubes then do it thats best thing to do.

J. H

I would go with the advice of your DR. My son developed a 5 percent hearing loss due to infections caused by lack of drainage, and he had no tonsil/adenoid issues. The DR may be putting in the tubes to prevent any further damage to your sons ears. I cannot even begin to tell you what a difference the tubes have made in my sons life. He used to be in so much pain before, and ill all the time.

I'm not really sure if the adenoids keep the fluid in, but my guess is that the dr is thinking that rather than put him under twice, he can do both procedures at the same time. I would definitely get a second opinion though, and ask your pediatrician his/her opinion as well. If they are all saying the same thing, I think you should trust that that is what needs to happen.

FYI: My daughter had tubes put in when she was nine months old due to 5 ear infections in 5 months...since then, everything has been much better.

Hope that Helps!

S. B.

Has your son been allergy tested? My daughter was one more infection from getting tubes and then tonsils out when I insisted she be allergy tested. She ended up being allergic to 5 different foods, one of which was apples. I was putting her constant doses of antibiotics in applesauce so she would eat it, talk about a vicious cycle. After I took her off those foods, she did not have another infection for over a year and the fluid in her ears cleared up. This may not be your sons problem, but I thought I would share my solution. Good Luck-J.

Hi K.!
All 3 of my boys have had to have tubes, and my oldest had to have them due to hearing loss, not ear infections. He had his adenoids removed at the same time. He was six when he had the procedure done, which is on the older end of the spectrum for first-time tubes. Everything went really smoothly, and he heard much better after the tubes. We also weren't sure before the surgery if he needed tubes, and we elected to leave it up to the doctor's discretion while he was in there. He said that my son had the thickest goop in there that he had ever seen, and it likely wouldn't have been able to drain ever.

Maybe you can leave it up to the doctor to see what the ears look like when he is in there, and insert tubes only if necessary?

Good luck!

Totally do the tubes. It's a super simple and fast procedure. My son was out playing like nothing happened maybe 90 minutes later. Especially if he's already going to be under for the tonsils. It would add maybe 1-2 minutes to the operation. It's a snap to do.

Both of my kids had tubes and adenoids out. If you are going to do it then you should do it all at the same time it is better for your child. My kids were so much healthier when the tubes got put and they felt better too. I recommend it the tube are not really a big deal. My daughter had two set of them.
Good Luck,
C.

I would have the tonsils and adenoids surgery done and then see what happens. My son had tubes put in at 11 mo. and the procedure took only 30 min. tops. If the ears become a problem you can always get the tubes put in later. I would take it one step/procedure at a time....good luck!

K.,

I had three boys all which are grown now and one of them had to have tubes put in and his adenoids out when he was about 2 yrs old. He was having none stop ear infections and problems associated with it and we had done everything. I remember being very afraid of them doing it especially since he was so young, as well as having to be careful of him getting water in his ears while the tubes were still in (he was a very active little boy). For us, it ended up being one of the best things they did. It helped alot! I have known many children over the years who had it done and many along with their tonsils and had good results. Also, the ones who didn't have the tubes put in, for the most part had to go back in and have them done. You may get different answers from others, but all I can share is my experience with it and those that I have known. Good Luck!

Do you have time to try a chiropractor a few times? I don't give my children antibiotics for ear infections anymore..for the last few years they go to the chiropractor for an adjustment and lymphatic system drainage (certain points the doc massages to get the release). I wouldn't go to a regular back cracker chiro..I would go to a chiro that is a natural doc. They are miracle workers. My son's upper respiratory problems, chronic sinus infections, asthma, crup, you name it he's had it chronically since birth. UNTIL...I started taking him to the chiro/homeopath doc. My sons asthma comes around very rarely and it's so mild when it does and all he needs is the right adjustment and it's gone. His sinus problems are much more mild now..the doc does sinus release and ear drainage techniques. If I were in the situation...I would try this route before surgery...but you are the mom and you need to do what you feel is right for your child....sounds like you have a feeling he doesn't need tubes. You have other options to try to avoid that. You are his mom, his doc isn't. Doctors are smart but they don't have mothers intuition and it's ok to listen to that intuition.

Hi K.,

My son had to have his adenoids out when he was 2 1/2. He did not have any problems with his ears though. His difficulties came with breathing at night, so there was not any mention of tubes being needed. I was very happy with the doctor that my peditrician referred. It was through ENT Associates in Glendale. I can probably dig through and find the name of the doctor if you want to get a 2nd opinion. Let me know.

M.

My 3 yr old just had tubes put in his ears. When I was 5 I had my tonsils and adnoids out and tubes put in. I think it is best to just get the tubes since the dr is right with your son anyway. It beats having to go thru the proceedure again later. The less trama the better. it can't hurt, if anything it will just drain the ears more efficiaently. (besides your son will then be able to have all the popsicles he wants while in the hospital and after he gets home. -- that was my favorite part as a kid.) ;)

I would definitely get a second opinion whenever any invasive treatment is presented; not to frighten you, it is just good sense for anyone in the same situation.

Yes - One of the most difficult decisions we make as parents is definitely related to healthcare. I would definitely have the tubes put in all at once. I believe the surgery is all "same day" surgery- so he gets to come home with you that same day. And once he out grows the tubes they'll come out on their own. I would decide to have it all done at once, especially since there is already some hearing loss. My son had the adnoid/tonsil surgery and it was a breeze for him. But we have had other surgeries that I had to decide if I wanted more than one procedure done, and opted for getting it all done at once, since I didn't want to have to go back in. Saved him the physical pain and me the mental anguish!

My first child had the same thing. He had this done and his hearing improved 100%. It is a quick outpatient thing and if he is suffering hearing issues that fluid is contaminated and needs to come out ASAP. The tubes are temporary and will fall out on their own once all the infected fluids have drained. Please discuss your concerns further with your doctor and remember that these fluids ARE infected and if they haven't cleared up with antibiotics this is the best alternative. Pray on it and get as educated on this as possable before you make your final decision.

Hi K.,I dont think it has anything to do with his adnoids. My daughter is 5 also and she needs her tonsils and adnoids out as well. But her doctor gave her a hearing test and she is above average. The draining could be something else entirely. That does seem like a lot for a 5 year old to go through though, maybe you should get a second opinion.

Good Luck,

M.

Dear Kim, I am a nurse and agree with your doctor as well. My soon had a hearing problem until I had his T and A removed. It was amazing his speedy rcovery and relatively painless procedure. He was 15 months at the time. No old enough to explain to him. But his health went straight up to the best! Kids are amamzng the parents have a harder time. Just keep lots of popcycles in the house for him. Your son will thank you years later! good luck! Patty

As a speech pathologist I would have the tubes put in. This is a critical time for sound acquisition and the hearing loss could affect this. The other concern I would have as a parent would be putting my child under antesthesia twice. By doing it at the same time you would only have to put him under once.

K., my name is S.. I have 3 grown children and have been a nurse {LPN} for 42 years. My advice is to go ahead with the T/A but hold off on the tubes. Some of this may be due to food allergies such as lactose intolerance. There are viable substitutes out there such as Rice Dream for starters. My middle son was allergic to peanutbutter and cats. If you're serious about pursuing more info, let me know and I can hook you up to someother interesting options. S. T

Hi, In April 2006 my son, age 5 and my daughter, age 2, went in for this sugery. My son, had his tonsils and adenoids out. Plus he had tubes put in. (my daughter just had tubes put in.) About 3 years old, he had lots of drainage, he snored loudly, some ear infections, he had a 35% hearing loss, lots of colds. It didn't affect his speech, but it affected my daughters. Our doctor waited a year to see if their ears would dry out and they wouldn't need tubes. But they still needed them anyway. I was really worried since he was going to start Kindergarten the following Fall. So we did the surgery. It was very hard, for my husband and I, to see them being put under. I cried... Even though we explained it to them, they were still scared. My daughter came out fine and recovered fine. My son, couldn't talk and was VERY sore! He would barley take the Tylonel and ice chips. It was a rough 2 weeks, at home, but it was worth it! (I can say that now). They can both hear fine. Their tubes take from 9 months to 2 years. Theirs are almost out. You just have to becareful with water. They need to wear plugs in their ears. Their colds are minimal. If they do get a cold it is small. Very little sore thoarts. And my son doesn't snore any more...I had to check on him in the begining...I couldn't hear him. If you have any questions please e-mail me (____@____.com).
Good Luck!
M. :)

Hi K.,
I am a speech pathologist in the school system and a mother of 2 year old son who had tubes placed at 14 months. My son had 6 ear infections in his first year of life. After the tubes, he has had no infections. My brother had hearing loss as a child due to fluid in the middle ear (infections), all which was cleared up with the placement of tubes.

I think the tubes will made a difference with the fluid in your son's ears. It's an extremely simple procedure with little to no side effects (other than the ear plugs, which my son says are "cool").

I always advise my student's parents who talk to me about tubes to get a second opinion and also talk to other parents in a similar situation. When they ask me frankly if I think they should go ahead with the procedure, I always tell them that it's a personal decision, but it did wonders for my son....so esentially, I tell them.....GO FOT IT. That is just my opinion. I hope you are getting the advice you needed from all of us mommies. Best of luck to you!

-N.

I agree. Get them put in and then it is done and over with and you don't have to go back later.

K.-
I would get a second opinion beofre I moved forward with any removals. My daughter had chronic ear infections for years and after testing her earing (which was fine) and careful care, I stopped all meds and began to ket her fight the infections....she did great. We would treat the fever if one presented and then it would pass. I was told all along to get tubes put in her ears, but did not like the idea and there was no guarentee the infections would not return, which was why we were putting in tubes in the first place. So, get a second opinion and have all your questions answered to your comfort level before doing anything.

Hi, I work for a pediatric office and i see this alot, usually if the child has alot of ear infections then the child needs to get tubes (my son had tubes and hasnt had another infection and its been 8 yrs) but if he always has fluid, the tubes will help them to drain and get the pain of the pressure out. The adenoids usually are removed when the tonsills are removed, but adenoids always grow back. My opinion would to recomend the tubes, it is a quick and easy procedure, well i hope i could help a little, good luck.

I would go with the tonsils & adenoids first, my daughter had the same thing. If he has not had many ear infections, am pretty certain as you that once the tonsits & adenoids come out everything will clear up.

My son had the same procedure done when he was six months old. Currently, he is 16 years old and the was one of the best things I ever did. Prior to the tubes, he was having infection after infection and this even began to disturb his hearing - after the surgery - no problem. It was quick and safe. Trust your doctor.

Before you put your son through all that you might want to invest in some therapeutic grade essential oils. I'm a distributor of them and I keep myself and my family healthy with them. My only doctor's appointments are annual check-ups. If you're interested in learning more, feel free to e-mail me at ____@____.com

Kindest regards,
N. Nickerson
###-###-####

No to the tubes, for sure. That's a lifelong thing to deal with. Another thing to try first before tubes is taking your child off dairy. That clears up repeated ear infections in a lot of kids. And yes, your kid's bones will be fine. There is all kinds of research that shows that other sources of calcium are WAY better for bone health than milk.

Please be very wary of taking medical advice from strangers on the internet. A bunch of moms saying "Do It" does not constitute a responsible second opinion.

my son had tubes put in his ears also because he had alot of ear infections if your son has alot of infections iwould do it its a very simple procedure but if you feel you should wait and see rather than putr him thru it then go with your motherly instincts

You need a second or third opinion

My oldest son had tubes put in and they were immensely helpful. This was years ago, but even then, they eventually came out on their own. If he's already had hearing loss, I'd do it in a heartbeat! There aren't any longterm effects, I don't think. It would save a possible second surgery.

But...Mom's are entitled to do what they feel is best. That's just my two cents worth.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

S. R.

Both of my children were very sick with ear infections as infants. The doctor recommended tubes for both of my children and I agreed to it. It was a hard decision since they were so young. Both of my children had the tubes before they were a year old. Since the tubes we have not had a single ear infection and my children are now 8 and 6 years old. I am glad I chose to have it done. You should consider it because you really don't want to have your child put to sleep too many times at a young age. It will only help your child. I can't see how it would do any harm to have it done.

Hi Kim. My son suffered from the same problem. Having the adenoids removed is not going to relieve the fluid in the ears. I think you should go ahead and have the tubes put in at the same time that he has his adenoids removed 1. it will be one procedure and only takes 30-45 mins for both. 2. you don't want to have to go in for a second procedure especially if he may not react to the anesthesia well. The adenoids are not whats keeping the fluid in the ear. You have to remember that the ears, nose and throat are all conncected and works like a drainage system. It will not harm your son to have the tube placed in his ears. Once they are there and he has the adenoids then his hearing will improve tremendously and he will be less like to suffer any further hearing loss.

I hopes this helps you with your decision. I am glad that did it. I have not had any problems since having my sons adenoids removed and tubes placed in his ears.

C.

do it now!!! before he gets older. the older the more it hurts! i just got my tonsils out a few years ago, and at the same time two little girls did too. they recovered way faster than i did! my advices is if he needs it done, get it done ASAP!

you don't mention why you are resistant to getting tubes. trust that the doctor has seen enough of these cases to know what treatment is best. if you're not confident in the doctor's ability or advice, get a 2nd opinion. personally, i think one hospital admission is better than two...get the tubes at the same time. any further hearing loss is not worth waiting to see if the fluid clears up. good luck!

Hi K.,

My son had his tonsils and adenoids out last April, he was sick most of the times with sinus infectons and a lot of green and yellow staff comming out of his nose. He had trouble to breath with his nose he will sleep with his mouth open and make a lot of noise. His doctor told me that he will need also the tubes and they will do it at the same time of his tonsil surgery. After the operation his doctor came to sees me she told me( I took all the fluid from his ears and cleaned both and he won't need the tubes, but if he gets sick with the same problem we may need to put the tubes. He is four years old now and healthy than ever he gets colds but not like he used to get before. No needed to put the tubes.Just wait until the operation is done and have a lot of faith that he won't need to wear the tubes. Good luck!!

Hello K.,

i also at about that age had my adenoids taken out & tubes were put in, i just wanted to say that i am now 36 yrs old & have not had any trouble since then. I know it seems scary to think of your little one having that procedure done but it was well worth it and i remember later on that day the nurses gave me a bowl of ice cream & all was great again...lol.

The tubes were a blessing to both of my boys when they were young.. My older son unfortunately suffered some hearing loss -we should have had it done sooner..

Hi, my son had his tonsils and adnoid taken out when he was three years old. He had fluid buildup in his ears that was causing some hearing loss also. Then, about a year later they put tubes in, which was a big help. I wish they would have done it during the first surgery. Putting the tubes in is such a minor surgery, it's the tonsils and adnoids that are a big deal. I've never heard of removing adnoids to remove fluid in the ears. I'd listen to the doctors and get the tubes.
Best of luck,
S.'

get a second opinion or even several because trusting one doctors opinion isnt always the best way to go

My daughter had her tonsils removed and the tubes put in. They have made all of the difference - she did get many ear infections though. It might be good to keep them in for a year and if he seems fine they can take them out. Just so you wouldn't have to go in again. The only bummer is the ear plugs, but they get used to them pretty quickly. Good luck! We noticed a tremendous difference in just a day , they sleep so much better and can hear better too!

I'm a little late to the game here (I just joined today and your post popped up on my main page), but if you are in San Diego the 2 best ENTs are Dr. Ochi and Dr. Pransky. Tubes are a really simple procedure. It took all of 5 minutes. Good luck.

Hi K.,
First of all get a second opinion before you have any kind of surgery done. This might sound weird but when i have the feeling of a ear infection or fluid in my ear i go and stand in the sun and lean my ear up toward the sunbeam. The hot heat from the sun comforts a ear ache and causes the pain to go away and fluids to dry up. Your ear also feels a lot better afterwards. Try this with your son. Good luck!

K.,

When I was 5 I got my tonsils and adenoids out and had tubes put in my ears. At the time my mom said that I could barely hear her, but after the procedures, I was fine. I'm 32 now, and doing great!

I just went through the same thing with my 5 year old daughter. She has not had many ear infections, but she does have hearing loss due to fluid in her ears. Please get a second opinion. One of my friends took her son to an osteopath which she said was very helpful. Our doctor recommened all three procedures and we felt it was the best thing for our daughter. While in surgery, he changed his mind though and only put tubes in and took the adnoids out. So far she is well. We will take her for a new hearing test in a couple months. Good luck.

Sounds like you need to get a second opinion. Why would he needs tubes once the tonsils and adnoids have been removed? Hmmmm, could just be a way to make more off the insurance.

One of my children at 7 months old had chronic ear infections and asthma. We were at the doctors almost every two weeks. We were going to have tubes put in at 1 years old. We have a chiropractor in our family and she suggested that we try adjusting him. She did the adjustment and his ears drained, went the the doctor to get the tubes and she said that he didn't need it, his ears cleared up, looked health and we should wait to see at another time. Also, he didn't need the machine for his asthma any more. He's now 14 years old, no asthma or problems with his ears.

My 6 month old son just had tubes put in as well as a flenulectomy, tongue tie issues! I also didn't want to do the tubes! He is a COMPLETELY different baby! He was always so so sweet and never cried really but now all of a sudden he is thriving! He had 100% hearing loss in his left ear and 35% in his right! It has been been a week since the surgery and it all came back! It is soooooooooo worth doing! They start adapting to the hearing loss and he won't thrive well! And 2 putting them under twice isn't a good idea anyway! It doesn't take any recovery time at all and I just know he will feel so much better! I so understand your worry! Even if it is the adenoids, my doc said that the correct procedure is to to both, because the ear drum and canal are now compromised with scar tissue and an infection is 87% likely to come back right away! Good luck!

i don't know what to tell you about the tubes..but there is a natural enzyme called "serrapeptase" that you should look into for the fluids in his ears.. google it.. also you should know it does act as a blood thinner so you shouldn't use it before his surgery..but it will help him heal faster and could get rid of the fluid in his ears.
good luck..i had my tonsils out when i was 11 and i stopped having chronic swollen glands in my throat.

I had all of that done when I was exactly the same age. It has prevented me from having ANY ear infections or strept throat in over 23 years!!! I say go for it. If my girls ever end up w/ the same prognosis, I won't hesitate to have those procedures done! Good Luck.!

You may want to get a second opinion. My son got tubes at 18 months and it was the best thing, as he had chronic ear infections and concerns about his hearing. If we hadn't, he had the chance of going deaf. We have a wonderful ENT, Dr Supance in Mission Viejo. I have know quite a few parents who have taken their kids to see him and have been pleased. He will definitely tell you if your child doesn't need tubes. Good luck.

I would find out what he is allergic to before he goes under the knife, this could really be the reason he is having ear nose and throat problems take him to a allergists first. the infections could be secondary to the real problem.

Hello--I do understand your concern; however, I would encourage you to follow your doctor's advice. I am a speech language pathologist who happens to have unilateral hearing loss. Any amount of hearing loss interferes with the information that your son can receive auditorally. Ages 3-5 are typically referred to the primary "language building" years. If you choose to get the tubes placed, you will be reducing his chance for a second operation (in the event the fluid does not clear), and will be proactive in helping your son achieve normal hearing. If it was my son (I have a 2 1/2 year old), I would without hesitation, have the tubes placed while he was already under for the removal of his tonsils and adenoids. Best wishes to you and your son.

Dear K.,

Just get the tubes put in when the other work is done, it will be easier on your child. You will probably have to go back and have the tubes put in, and he will have to go through that trauma twice. I had my tonsils out when I was 5 also, and still remember it as a scary event. I am 76 now.

ALSO, if the fluid does stop him from hearing very well, THEN it will slow him down with acquisition of language. Just do it.

C. N.

K.,
Both my daughters have had tubes in their ears as babies. It is a very simple proceduree, especially since your child will already be having surgery. The tubes in the eardrums allow for the fluid to drain out. The hearing loss would possibly clear up.
I am also an audiologist. S. A.

These are signs that your child health is very unstable. The problems your child is having may be associated with food allergies and high intake of sugar and grains. All problems may clear up if you put your child on a diet free from common allergens, sugar and gluten. Taking out important organs will not solve the source of the problems and more and more problems will keep showing up. Try this diet and research www.westonaprice.org and read the book What to Eat and Why by Nina Plank. I'm a nutritionist and have seen this diet change solve many, many problems such as the ones your child is experiencing.

My son got tubes when he was about 6. It was affecting his hearing so his speech wasn't correct. It was no big deal and it made a huge difference.
That sounds like an awful lot of surgery for a small boy. When in doubt get a 2nd opinion from an ENT. Your insurance has to pay for a 2nd opinion when requested. Usually the adenoids cause snoring...I wouldn't put my son thru all that w/o the 2nd opinion, call your insurance company and inquire.

Many ENT's make the tubes a routine addition to the T & A, since they are in the "area" and many children do have the ear blockage and infections associated with obstructive breathing and congestion.

My daughter had her T & A at 18 months, she had chronic sinus infections associated with allergies and pneumonia twice. She became allergic to most types of antibiotics. Our ENT also suggested tubes, but she had an ear infection only once.

My father is a physican and my husband is a pharmacist and we decided it would be worth the risk to have to put her under again if the tubes were needed after the T & A. Tubes are a complete pain and many children have trouble keeping the water out of the ear in a normal bathing routine. Since she was so small, I did not have the added worry of her possibly jumping into the pool against our wishes.

Talk with your doctor frankly about your wishes and make your decision. For us, it did not make sense in the absence of infections. Of course, going under is not without risk either.

you didn't explain what your concern was about not putting in the tubes. believe me, for such a simple procedure, you may want to do it all at once. we did and it was worth it for just the pure anxiety level of surgery. other friends waited and sure enough had to do it again. more anesthesia, pain, recovery. no fun twice!

Hello K. ~ Have you gone to another doctor/perdiatrican to get a 2nd opinion? seems like that would be the best way to go since you aren't sure you agree with what your doctor is saying. If the 2nd doctor gives you the same advice, you will probably feel better about going with it. If she or he gives you different advice, then you have more choices and will likely feel better about that too. I recommend 10th Street Pediatrics in Santa Monica. My Dr. is Lisa Stern, but everyone in that group is really terrific. Good luck!
H., A Culver City Mom

My son had the tubes in 3 times. The surgery is very quick and it has helped him. But due to other illnesses that he has his body has somehow started to reject it. I am dissapointed cause it really helped his hearing. but not we have to go through a cycle of meds to see if he can get the fluid out and if that doesn't work we have to consider some sort of sinus surgery. It is a hard decision but if you feel you need a second opinion get it. It is your child and you do anything to make his life easier. Good luck to you and your son. Having the tubes is not a bad thing and once it falls out you can see if he needs them again. They have different tubes that will last longer than others. Ask which ones the dr plans to use. that may influence your desision. good luck again.

K., before removing body parts that can not be replaced, I urge you to consider finding out what the real culprit is. So many times a child is sensitive to foods and so they produce mucous and fluids. An elimination diet especially eliminating all dairy, wheat, eggs - you can google 'elimination diet' also read www.mercola.com All of our body parts have a function. Please consider checking 'fuel' you are putting in the system B4 taking out parts of the motor.

My son went thru the same issue, but he was only 2 1/2. I was never given the option of not putting in the tubes, they just did it as part of the procedure. As you said, my son had NEVER suffered from any ear infections, even though the surgeon said she couldn't even believe how my son had been able to hear us since he had sooo much fluid in his ears. I'm glad I took care of everything all at once. I didn't want my son to have to go thru surgery or risk hearing loss as he got older. The only bad thing is that since surgery, he now gets ear infections and he is very sensitive now with the pool and stuff.

Hello K.
I saw your question and I was aware that adnoids go away once children get older, unfortunately like tonsils they can be bothersome. However your tonsils are your first line of defense for when you get sick, ie sore throat. I feel that you should keep all of them. I would get a second opinion before going through all of this.
Sincerely
K. RN and mom

Before you send your son under the knife GET a SECOND opinion. It never hurts to be sure.

Take him off ALL dairy and have him start taking Juice Plus ASAP. His body is not able to heal, fight, and stay strong. Check out www.askdrsears.com Nutrition is a key component to wellness. Doctors are trained to do two things, cut and prescribe and it's the strongest source of income for them. I love doctors but want those who use surgery and drugs as a last last resort after addressing diet, rest and education.

Try chiropractic care!
You may not need the surgery altogether!

Please get a second opinion. As I'm sure you can appreciate, every part of our body (including tonsils and adenoids) is there for a reason (especially when that body part is in your own child!:)). Good luck to you and your son.

Generally speaking, doctors are very conservative when it comes to children-example-my son who is now 12 yrs old had to have a hernia repair at 4 yrs old- the doctor told me she was going to check to see if he had another one on the other side while she was in there and if there was she would fix it- guess what? Yes, he had one on the other side as well- if she had not been doing her job correctly and suggested that, I would have to put him AND myself through that all again- I respect doctors and their professionalism-yes there are a few quacks out there, but the majority know what they are talking about and should be takin seriously-I say put the tubes in, it won't hurt him and could prevent future possible (very painful,sleepless night ear infections) Alot of the times they fall out on their own anyway- GOOD LUCK! J. (____@____.com)

I have an 18 year old daughter who had all three procedures done when she was 3. I too feel that her adenoids were a huge reason for all the ear infections. The tubes are definiately the easiest part of the surgery/recovery so my feeling is rather than put him/her through surgery two times it would be better to have everything done at once. My daughter did end up with a couple of ear infections after all was done and the tubes did what they were suppose to do (gross). As she is older now, I can honestly say she has been much healthier after having had the surgery. I think the main thing is avoid having to put him/her through two surgeries.

I think it is very reasonable, when you are not sure about something, to get a second opinion. That is what I'd recommend.

Best thoughts to your son.

My daughter is 13 months old. Her Pediatrician has told me that A LOT of ear infections is 6 in 6 months and that would prompt them to want to put tubes. It is odd that they want to do it when your son is 5. They usually fall out by the time he is 5. My nephew had them and he had intermintent hearing loss for 6 months and now has all sorts of speech problems due to my sister waiting too long to put the tubes in. You need to go see and Ear, Nose and Throat doctor. Also is your doctor a Pediatrician?? If not my best advice to you is to get your child to one. My sisters biggest regret is not having her children at a pediatrician from the time of birth. Her family practice doctor was the one whom waited too long and did not even see signs that her child could not hear..and he should have. But go to the specialist. Do not wait. I hope this was helpful.

Okay this may sound strange but has he ever been to a chiropractor? My daughter had a huge ear infection due to a bad fluid build up. My FIL, a chiropractor, spent 30 seconds rubbing her neck and found that she had a bone that had popped out of place. It took 20 seconds to fix and within 30 minutes her fever was gone. Next day took her back to the doctor and he said her ears were perfectly clear. Everytime either of my children get sick I always have them adjusted first thing. About 75% of the time they are better very quickly.

I don't know much about the adenoids, but my son has tubes and it was the best decision we ever made. He now has great hearing and his speech has improved. He had a lot of fluid in his ears all the time. The surgury was not a big deal, they used a little gas mask and no IV, it inly took 10 min. so it wouldn't be a big deal if he had to go back to get them if you choose to wait. Hope this helps. Also, I know a great doctor if you need one.

My son was 5 years old he had the same surgery done.
I had the tubes put in his ears.I can tell you that
he used to be sick all the time before the surgery.
Now he get's sick maybe once a year..It was the best
thing for him..I'm glad I did it all at once...

K., your doctor went to school to learn how to care for this problem. Everyone I know who has had a kid with tuubes in their ears did it to help the child. If you think you want a second opinion I would ask another ear, nose and throat doctor, not a mom.

Go for it. We went thru this when my daughter was 3. Recurring tonsilitis required removing tonsils & adnoids. Due to a few ear infections and some fluid in the ear, it was recommended we do the tubes at the same time. I didn't think it was really necessary, but it made sense to do it all at once while she was already asleep and not have to risk having a 2nd procedure. So, we agreed. The surgery was short and she went home the same day. The recovery was hard for a couple of days, but we've had no problems since and she's 5 and has had only ONE ear infection since. I'd do it again in a heart beat. Good luck.

My son had tubes put in his ears and it decreased his ear infections and it was so easy. I am a speech pathologist and my advice is to eliminate any fluid that is building up in the eustacian tube because of the impact fluid can have on his speech. The procedure is quick and easy. You certainly don't want him to have to go through this again and he'll never know the difference if it's done at once.

You will delay his speech and school if you do not clear the ears. My son had his tonsils and adnoids out at 21 months and he is so much better because of it. Do all 3 at once. the tubes are the least of it trust me! they grow out of them in a year or 2 i hear. no big deal. Clear the fluid. It can cause permanent hearing loss.

Please get other opinions before going this route!! As a teen I was VERY sick with sinus/ear problems. Western Medicine told my mom to take out my adnoids, put me on this antibiotic and that antibiotic... after 9 months of misery (I sucked gunk out of my ears with an eyedropper) she took me to an alternative doctor that was able to get me well. It turns out I had food allergies (wheat) and allergies to my carpet that were causing my immune system to not work well...

It is sometimes even covered by insurance (if you have a PPO)... I agree with Lisa P. I went to a chiropractor / kinesiologist!!

My daugther needed tubes at age 3. It really helped. They grew out & closed up by age 5. It is no big deal. She just had to wear ear plugs when bathing or swimming for those 2 years. Better to only have him put under ONCE than to find later you need to go in again for tubes.
C.

Hi K.,
I know how you feel not wanting your child to have to have anything done that is not absolutely needed. She also did not have a problem with ear infections. However, my daughter had the tonsils and adenoids out, and because of fluid in her ears, the doctor suggested tubes also. I took the recomendation of the two specialasts we saw and had the tubes put in also. I didn't realize that she was hearing things like she was under water and it was affecting her speach. She had the surgery done when she was 4, and she is now 6 and doing great. We have a pool, so she had to wear the earplugs for the last two years, but other than that, the tubes were no problem. Ask your doctor to let you know about the bleeding, and getting sick right after surgery(tonsils). I was not prepared and it frightened me.

as a pediatric anesthesiologist i can tell you that having ear tubes placed is a very straightforward procedure. if my little one needed his tonsils and adenoids out and there was any question of whether he needed ear tubes- i would do it all at once to prevent potentially having to expose him to two anesthetics.

Hi K.,

I have 2 boys and 1 girl. Both my boys were prone to the tonsilitis and strept throat. I made the decision to have their tonsils out when they were 5 years old. It is easier for them to recover at a younger age than when they are older. It was a great decision as they have not been ill since (knock on wood). My husband was going through the same problem and had his tonsils out at age 24.....it was terrible....he was a bigger baby than the boys. I will warn you that it is 2 weeks of recovery time and constant care. Be prepared for the WORST DRAGON BREATH ever!!! You litterally have to force them to drink and make sure you keep an eye on the cough as you do not want their scabs to come off from the cauterizing. If you see a lot of blood, call the doc asap. Your son will also snore with his mouth open as it hurts them to swallow...so put a towel over his pillow and wash it frequently...it will smell of the dragon breath.
As for the tubes....only one of my boys had tubes twice. It was the best thing as they start to hear sounds muffled because of the fluid and then they learn to talk how they hear a word....my son is now going through speech in school to correct his "R and ER" sounds. All in all, it both were great as I am not spending as much time off work with sick kids. Hope this helps....let me know if you have any other questions....

A friend of mine is going through a similar thing with her 2 year old. Having surgery at CHOC Mission Viejo next week... but they are hoping the adenoid/tonsil removal helps clear out the ears...eliminating the need for tubes. Every situation is different though. With hearing loss already? Choose quickly. Years ago my son had the need for tubes, but we took him off dairy and he nevr got another ear infection...he's 19 now! and... now they make good soymilk, too. They took the 'yuck' out! The best (in my opinion) is Pacific Ultra-soy plain... very close to milk. Closer than goat milk even. Best to you, good mama, I'm sure you'll be on top of what's best for your son.
L. P

Hi K.,
My son had the whole thing done when he was three. He did have regular, almost constant ear infections with the tonsillitis. I can only speak from what my son went through but my opinion is get the tubes. It made a huge difference for my son to not have that fluid build up and once the surgery was done he went from being a constantly sick child to a never sick child. Tubes are much more common now than when my son got them 11 years ago. Once you get used to the tube conditions with the wax and the caution around water for a few years it will be so much easier. Also, in my opinion, why take the chance of having to anesthetize your child twice.
Hope this helps

K.- my 3y/o son recently had tubes put in. Like your son, he didn't have chronic ear infections. As you know the chronic fluid does affect not only their hearing but also their speech. My son has had speech delay for a long time, but since getting the tubes he has progressed. I know our cases are still very different w/ the adenoids and all. My husband had all those same surgeries when he was young also and tubes several times. He also struggled w/ speech b/c of his hearing issues. I see your point in wanting to wait and see how he does. Honestly if it was my son, I would go ahead and do it all at once. My son has just benefited so much from the tubes. I would hate to have to go and do another surgery. I hope this helps.

K. C

Have you thought about just getting the tubes in, and the ears will clear up and you wont need to take out the adenoids and tonsils. My daughter had both the adenoids and tonsils taken out do to them being swollen all the time but she did not have fluid in her ears. My nephew had tubes put in because of fluid in his ears and his adenoids and tonsils were not swollen. The tubes cleared it up.

Why would you take the chance of him having permanent hearing loss when you can do the additional simple procedure? The tonsils may clear it up but then again may not. I would err on the side of caution. You are in a position to prevent the permanent damage so why not try!

i'm a student in speech pathology. if the doctor thinks tubes are necessary, i would do it. the fluid in his ears is more likely to be related to some kind of eustachian tube problem than the adenoids. also, i had tubes when i was a child and i don't even remember them. hearing loss is serious at your sons age, when so much is being learned. i would get the tubes, so hopefully it can be resolved asap. hope that helps.

I think you should go ahead with the tube placement, especially because there is already some hearing loss. There is no recovery with that procdure and is esentially painless for them. If you could avoid having your child placed under the anesthesia for a 2nd time, that's best.

Most likely your son has a dairy allergy. Almond milk is a great alternative. My twins had frequent ear infections and when we took them off dairy they never had another ear infection. Did your child's doctor ever suspect your child had a dairy allergy?
D. Merlin
Author
www.victoryoveradhd.com

What is your hesitation about placing the tubes?

I have a 3 year old daught and she has had her tonsils and adenoids removed and had two sets of ear tubes. If the want to do the tubes you should get the permenant "T" tubes. My daughter had the regular ones and they fell out really fast. It's better to do tonsils before the get big. My daughtet was sore for like a day. Her and my 4 year old son both got them removed on the same day and I swear there heal so much more faster when they are young.

K.,
Our oldest daughter had the same problem. Get the tubes at the same time and save him the agony and fear of a second surgery (and yourself too). The likelyhood of his needing the tubes to help the drainage is pretty high and if the doctor reccommends it be done at the same time, go ahead.
The tubes were not a problem for our daughter and saved her from hearing loss at a critical time in her life. She was also 5.
God bless
D.

My son had his tonsils and adnoids out when he was 5 but did not need tubes in his ears, my husband did need tubes in his ears off and on from the time he was 5. I would say get the tubes when their doing all the rest that way he doesn't have to go through it twice.
Good luck and God bless,
N. :-)

Tubes in the ears are no big deal. They go in easily and come out on their own. It can't hurt him and it could potentially help a lot, so why not? Especially since he's already going to be under.

My daughter had tubes put in when she was 16 months old during surgery for mastoiditis. She is almost 3 1/2 now and they are still there! In the beginning we had to use earplugs when she bathed or went swimming, but it was really not an issue. We stopped using the earplugs about a year ago and she has had no problems with her ears, not even one single ear infection.

Hope this helps! Good luck to you and your precious son!!

K., I have a son that has struggled with ear infections and fluid his whole life. He is almost 7 years old and has had three sets of tubes and his adnoids out. I HIGHLY recommend the tubes. If he has had hearing loss why wait. He will already be under so why go back and make him go through all that again. My son is a totally different kid when he has the tubes and there is no fluid behind his ears. I say go for it!!!! Take the advice of your doctor they are the professional.
Good luck

My six year old grandson just got his tonsils and adnoids out
10 days ago. The ears will drain. About three days after surgery lots of wax was draining out of both ears.Amazing!
My grandson had lots of ear aches before surgery.
The first few day after surgery are a little rough. If he won't drink liquids,filled a new squirt gun with gatorade and
let the child squirt the liquid in the mouth. No red popsciles, drink, jello. My grandson is doing great. He is eating soft foods and talking and we are on the 11 day.
Good luck.
Nana

The only thing I can say is that my son had his adnoids out and tubes and it worked wonders. He also had hearing loss due to the fluid. It was mildly inconvenient in the tub and pool but we found some great ear plugs and the tubes fell out after a year and a half. he hasn't had any ear infections since and his hearing is so much better. I liked that he only had to go under once and it worked very well.

Hi K.:

I'm not a doctor, but when my daughter was 3 she had chronic ear infections and tonsilitus. They took out her tonsils and adnoids, but didn't put tubes in. It wasn't even brough up about tubes.

If you're worried, get a second opinion. I would, this is your child and you want what is best for him. Most doctors appreciate it when you get a second opinion.

I hope this helps!
L. B.

Both of my youngest have had tympanostomies, and it is a very simple procedure done as an outpatient thing. The tubes will let the fluid dry out. The hardest part is afterward keeping the water out of the ears, when washing hair or bathing. Your doctor can make an earplug to keep the water out, and you can also use a silcone-like stuff in a moldable form to block the ears. This surgery is the commonest pediatric surgery. Please talk more to your doctor about it. If the fluid doesn't get dried up it can cause an infection. This can lead to a ruptured eardrum and loss of hearing. P.S. The adenoids aren't keeping the fluid in.

My son went through the same thing when he was four. Once the tubes were put in and the adenoids were removed we had no problems with fluid or ear infections. He eventually grew out of the ear infection stage but i will tell you his adenoids grew back two years later Thankfully he has had no problems since and he is going on 12.

Hi K.,
I am so glad to have read your email because my 4 1/2 year old son just had his tomsils and adnoids out and ear plugs put in on Valentine's Day. He is doing remarkably well and hasn't complained at all. My advice is to have the ear plugs put in regardless if he has had ear infections. The ear plugs will not only keep the fluid out of his ears they will also keep the pressure in balance. The ear plugs are only for a short time and in the long run it will pay off. If you don't have them put in, and if he eventually needs them it is another surgical procedure that your son will have to undergo. I hope this info helps you. Good luck!

Hi,
I'm not sure why you are worried about the tubes. I would say get the tubes put in and get the fluid out! Fluid and ear infections are totally different things and just because you have one doesn't mean you don't get the other. You don't want hearing to be affected. The easist part of that procedure is putting the tubes in and the least painful for your son. I am answering this as a Speech Pathologist and a mother with a 7 year old daughter that still has fluid in her ears and is causing a hearing loss. Get everything done at once so you don't have to have him go under anesthetic more than once.

My son did go through the tubes twice and also had his adenoids and tonsils taken out. For us it was the best thing we could of done. Mt son was 5 when we had the first set of tubes put in and it made a huge difference in his hearing. Thesecond time when went in he was 7 and since then we have not had any issues. He is now 9 and the ear infections and fluid issues have stopped. I know that I was very nervous the first thime that we had to go through the surgery, but like I said his hear improved and so did his quality of life. Doctors now know that it is easier to do it when they are young and the healing processes goes quickly. I think that this a worth while surgery and the tubes wqill fall out. The good news is if you do decide to have all of the procedures done at once you probably will not have to go back in again.

I wish you well, you know your child best. I am happy with my decision to to ahead with the proceedure.

Hi K... My kids (2 out of 3) had the same problems.. my sugestion would be to have the tubes done while your son is already under the anestisa. The procedure is really no big deal (a tiny slit and a microscopic little tube) That way you dont have to put him under again (that seems to be harder on them than the procedure itself) if it does need to be done. Good luck!! :)