Visit to the ENT

Last week we had our follow-up visit to the ENT (Ear Nose and Throat) doctor. We saw him 6 weeks ago for the initial evaluation (where things went pretty well) and he wanted to see Colin back to check the fluidity of his ear drums again (particiularly his left) and to review all of his previous tests that were done (general hearing [OAE] and the BAER [Brainsteam Auditory Evoked Response]). Unfortunately, the BAER test results never made it to the office, so he still needs to review those.

We were very happy because the tests that were done in his office showed that both ear drums were very fluid (moved well during sound conduction) and there was no fluid buildup behind them. He explained that when the sound hits the ear drum, we want to see a triangle type symbol with the point at the type to show that things are moving normally. I also asked about the tendency for children with Down Syndrome to have enlarged adenoids, and he told me that without any signs or symptoms at this time, we don't need to worry about this. He also used this longer metal tool with what looked like an eye hook on the end to pull out the build up of ear wax that was in Colin's ear. He said that while it may not have looked like a lot (it did to me!), it was a lot for a little boy with smaller ear canals. You could tell that Colin noticed a difference because he would put his hands on his ears while hearing louder sounds for the rest of that day.

At this present time, we just need to continue to monitor this and follow-up again with him in 3 months for more hearing tests.

If you would like more information on the BAER test, you can click this link for some easy reading.

Colin just prior to getting called back.

Sitting like a big boy in the chair.