Don't Make Assumptions, Talk to a Specialist

The Daily Tribune Online has an opinion piece regarding childhood ear infections and a procedure called ear tube surgery. It's light on facts about ear infections and the treatment called ear tube surgery but there are two points worth considering about this piece. First, it serves as a reminder that sinus infections in small children can lead to other illnesses due to the fact that they are still developing and their immune system are still adapting. Second, it serves as an example of taking more heed of anecdotal evidence than the advice of your doctor.One of the reasons the writer of the piece uses for not wanting to have this surgical procedure performed on her child is that her older child had similar complications and is now fine without having the procedure performed. She vaguely cites a study about the procedure, which seems to indicate that the surgery isn't necessarily appropriate for many its performed on. While doing the research and being cautious about surgical procedures, no matter how minor, is commendable, making assumptions based on past experience and drawing conclusions about your particular case from a study you read in a newspaper don't replace the expertise of a trained doctor. If you're concerned about the advice of your doctor seek out the opinion of a specialist. Sinus infections should be taken seriously in this regard. If over the counter medicines aren't helping and symptoms persist, consult a specialist. Set an appointment with an expert to make sure you're getting the best information available.