Summer is a time for sunshine, swimming, and school breaks—but it can also bring a wave of ear infections, sore throats, and stuffy noses. With kids spending more time outdoors (and in the water), their ears, noses, and throats can be more vulnerable to seasonal irritants, allergies, and infections.
Whether you’re heading to Splashtown in Spring, hanging out on the Galveston or Freeport beaches, or packing up for a trip to the mountains, here’s how you can keep your child’s ENT (ear, nose, and throat) health in top shape all summer long.
Swim Smart to Prevent Swimmer’s Ear
Swimmer’s ear (also called otitis externa) is a common summer issue caused by water getting trapped in the ear canal, creating a perfect environment for bacteria to grow.
Tips to prevent it:
- Encourage kids to dry their ears well after swimming—tilt the head to each side and gently towel off the outer ear.
- Use swim earplugs or a swim cap if your child is prone to infections.
- Avoid swimming in dirty or untreated water.
- Never insert cotton swabs into the ears—this can irritate the ear canal or push wax deeper.
If your child complains of ear pain, itching, or muffled hearing, it’s worth getting it checked out early to prevent a more serious infection.
Watch Out for Summer Colds & Sore Throats
Although colds are more common in winter, summer viruses like enteroviruses can cause sore throats, fever, and runny noses. These often spread at summer camps, playgrounds, or family gatherings.
To reduce the risk:
- Encourage regular handwashing, especially before meals and after using shared equipment.
- Remind kids not to share drinks, utensils, or straws.
- Keep kids hydrated and well-rested to support their immune systems.
If your child has a persistent sore throat, fever, or difficulty swallowing, consult your pediatrician—it could be more than just a minor virus.
Manage Seasonal Allergies
Summer means blooming flowers, grass pollen, and dusty outdoor adventures. All of these can trigger allergic rhinitis (aka hay fever), which causes sneezing, itchy eyes, nasal congestion, and postnasal drip.
To help kids breathe easier:
- Check daily pollen counts and limit outdoor play when levels are high.
- Have kids shower and change clothes after playing outside to rinse off pollen.
- Use a saline nasal spray or nasal rinse to clear out allergens.
- Talk to your doctor about safe allergy medications for kids, if needed.
Allergies can also contribute to ear congestion or fluid buildup, so managing them can help prevent summer ear problems too.
Stay Hydrated & Avoid Irritants
Hydration is key for keeping mucous membranes moist and less vulnerable to infection. Dry throats, hoarse voices, and nosebleeds are more likely when kids are dehydrated or exposed to dry air.
Easy ways to help:
- Offer water frequently, especially after outdoor activities.
- Limit exposure to smoke, strong perfumes, or air pollution, which can irritate the respiratory tract.
- Use a humidifier in dry climates if needed.
Be Prepared When Traveling
If you’re heading to the beach, mountains, or grandma’s house, pack a few ENT essentials:
- Saline spray or drops
- Child-safe antihistamines or decongestants (if recommended and use no more than 3 days consecutively)
- Pain relievers for earaches or sore throats
- Ear plugs or drying drops for swimmers
- A basic first-aid kit
Changes in climate, air pressure during flights, or exposure to new allergens can all affect kids’ ear, nose, and throat health—so being prepared helps avoid surprises.
We’re Here to Help
Summer should be a season of fun—not doctor visits for illness. With a few smart habits and a little planning, you can help protect your child’s ears, nose, and throat all season long.
If you notice lingering symptoms like persistent congestion, sore throat, or ear discomfort, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment at Allergy & ENT Associates, one of the leaders of pediatric allergy and ENT care in the Greater Houston area.
Here’s to a happy, healthy, and carefree summer!