Hi,
Based on some visits to the pediatrician and ear-nose-throat (ENT) doctor, I really want to get my son's hearing tested (he's 2). I think the ENT doctor might do some type of test next visit, but his manner with kids is not so great. Does anyone have any options or suggestions in Tokyo?

Hello, Elizabeth,
My son, now 9, was prone to inner ear infections, (despite what one reads about breastfed babies not having that problem.)
He often removed batteries from toys and turned off children's tv shows, "because it's too noisy." He hated daycare and group sing-a-longs, etc. because of the noise. He often repeated my questions (and still does)or said, "huh?" I had a good ENT doctor who never "popped" the ear drum but I know many people have had this done and I was chastised by one ruthless clinic for not allowing it. He doesn't get the infections now and no one would tell me he had a real hearing problem. "He hears fine." But, I am glad I tested him often and kept an eye on it over the years. My father and cousin have "Nerve Deafness" and it is a problem as they are overwhelmed by too many sounds going on at the same time. It led us to homeschooling and a move to the country away from the sirens that woke him nightly.
Best of luck.Amy

The doctor that sees problems with ears is called "jibika".

When I worked for a general practitioner in the USA we performed hearing tests as part of the annual physicals. But we didn't have toddler patients. I imagine that the "jibika" here in Japan is able to give them, maybe Amy knows?

As far as ear infections go, here is what I have found.

My pediatrician has the little whatchamacallit ...scope in her desk and was kind enough to look in my daughter's ears when an infection was suspect. HOWEVER, if the ear was stuffed with wax, she couldn't see anything and she would not clean the ear(s) out herself. She insisted that I had to see the ear specialist for that. So I think that the doctors are quite aware of the sensitivity of working with ears and possibly this is why pediatricians seem to be reluctant to do what is a routine procedure for pediatricians in the USA. Also, I think it's just a different way of organizing the division of specialties. I have heard of pediatricians here in Japan not even taking a look. I guess I got lucky! As a rule she was able to see the infection, and I only had to visit the other doctor once for removal of wax.

Because I use a hospital, instead of a private clinic, this was not as bad as it sounds since the specialist happened to be on duty that day just across the hall. When something turns out to be much more serious, Japanese patients typically start a complicated series of efforts to find a doctor famous for a certain specialty, including introductions, being careful not to insult their doctor by implying he doesn't know enough, etc. Hopefully, the doctor himself will suggest another doctor when he realizes something is beyond his ken. But not all doctors are that sensible or humble.

Ear infections can be a routine part of growing up or a sign of something more serious. When I have a question that I know I will have trouble getting answered in English in a meaningful way, I turn to the internet. I have found out about roseola, chicken pox and a number of other things to my satisfaction this way. There is so much good information available that I sometimes can even make the judgement call to skip a visit to the doctor. Of course it is necessary to be a very careful reader, especially to avoid scaring oneself.

Needless to say, my internet search skills were very poor and have vastly improved since I had a child. "Need is the mother of invention" or how does it go?

Toho University Ohashi Hospital at Ikijiri Ohashi
Tel: 03-3468-1251

The ENT guy is called Okoshi-sensei. He is very nice, seems competent and fixed my immediate problem (i.e. pain). However, he couldn't really give a cause, other than allergy. He speaks a little English but I think is mainly there on Tuesdays (you have to go around 11.00 am and wait). Definitely call the hospital ahead or have a Japaense friend call and check.

i have a 1 year old daughter wirth sever otitis media; we have been getting here treated for past 2 months but she has not recovered. the doctor is recommending surgery; we would like to get a second opinion.

kindly let me know a really good ENT specialist in Tokyo. Your inputs will be really helpful; as we are quite worried.

Thanks.

Hi, We have been having a similar problem with our toddler and have got great care from Dr. Yamamoto, an ENT specialist who thoroughly examines and follows up on his small patients.
He also takes Japanese National Health Insurance and speaks very good English.
AZABU E.N.T. CLINIC (03)3448-0248
4-13-5, Minami-Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Open: 9:00-12:30, 14:30-18:00 (Mon.-Fri.) 9:00-12:30 (Sat.) Closed: Sun. & Holidays
Nearest Stn. : Hibiya Line HIROO Stn. (5mins. walk)

Pat

Hello,

My son is having an ear infection for quite some time now. The doctor in St. Luke's hospital is suggesting me to go for an ear tube. Does anybody here have any first hand experience with ear tube? Also I am looking for a good english speaking ENT specialist to go for a second opinion. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Regards,
Sraboni