What Causes Ear Infections?
Ear infections occur when fluid fills the space between the eardrum and the inner ear. This happens when the Eustachian tube becomes blocked due to a virus or bacterium, which prevents mucus and pus from draining out of the middle ear. These fluids put pressure on the eardrum, causing pain and discomfort.
Why Do Children Get Ear Infections So Often?
Children are especially susceptible to ear infections based on anatomy. The structure of their Eustachian tubes, which are still developing until about the age of two, makes them prone to swelling and blockages. Children who attend daycare or school and those exposed to tobacco smoke are most at risk.
What Are the Symptoms of a Pediatric Ear Infection?
The first sign of an ear infection may be an increase in irritability. Some children cry inconsolably. You may notice your child pulling or tugging on the ear. In addition to a painful earache that is worse when lying down, symptoms of ear infection include:
- Fluid discharge from the affected ear
- A feeling of fullness in the ear
- Difficulty hearing
- Trouble sleeping
- Headache
- Fever
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lack of appetite
How Is a Child’s Ear Infection Diagnosed?
An ear infection is easily diagnosed through an examination of your child’s ears with an otoscope. If the ears appear dull or red, contain fluid behind the eardrum or pus inside the middle ear, an ear infection is likely to blame. A hearing test may be recommended, especially if your child has had ear infections in the past.
How Are Ear Infections Treated?
Many doctors prefer to take a wait-and-see approach when it comes to treating ear infections, especially with younger children. They often clear up on their own without the need for antibiotics or other aggressive forms of medical treatment.
Medications like Tylenol or Motrin can manage pain (be sure to avoid giving your child aspirin, which is linked to a dangerous condition known as Reye’s syndrome) or eardrops. Use a warm washcloth pressed to the ear for comforting relief.
If the ear infection doesn’t go away on its own and is due to a bacterial infection, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics.