Childhood Ear Infections

The most common of all childhood ear infections are infections
in the middle ear This is commonly referred to as Otitis Media
Cases of middle ear infections in children are most prevalent in
children who are six years old and younger Within that group,
children between the ages of six and 24 months seem to be more
susceptible to middle ear infections Children who are in group
child care facilities, around smokers, have prior ear
infections, or who are bottle-fed are more prone to develop ear
infections
Middle ear infections are usually accompanied by, or come after,
the child has a cold or the flu The eustachian tube, which
connects the ear and the nose, is short and horizontal in
children This opens the door for bacteria and viruses from the
nose to enter the ear and set up infection
When a child has a middle ear infection, they will experience
pain This pain can be worse upon chewing, blowing the nose,
reclining, or even swallowing The reason for the pain is the
eustachian tube is swollen, and sometimes blocked This causes a
buildup of fluid which places pressure on the eardrum The
eardrum can bulge, or be stretched very taut Middle ear
infections may also bring about a temporary loss of hearing
If your child has an ear infection, you will know they are in
pain You may notice them pulling on their ear, or they may
become irritable during feedings, or when laid down to sleep
Your child may also have a fever, or drainage from their ear
You should take him or her to their pediatrician
Once a pediatrician diagnosis that a child has an ear infection,
he or she will prescribe antibiotics You may also be advised to
give your child over the counter pain or cold medication
Applying a warm cloth to your child’s ear may also help to
lessen the pain Children who have frequent ear infections may
be candidates for tympanostomy This is a surgical procedure
that places tubes in the ears These tubes are placed in the ear
drum to keep fluid draining from the middle ear, and not
building up The tubes generally stay in place six to eighteen
months Most generally fall out on their own Some may be
removed by a doctor
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