Ear infection

If you have ever worked with children or have some of your own, you know the dreaded time of having to deal with a child having an ear infection.

What is an ear infection?

An ear infection is inflammation of the middle ear, sometimes caused by bacteria, which forms from fluid buildup behind the eardrum. Anyone can get an ear infection but, they are more common in children. It’s always been questioned why children seem to get them more often. It’s because their eustachian tubes are smaller and more level than an adult. This makes it difficult for fluid to drain out of the ear. (Ear)

Some signs of an ear infection include:  

       o   Tugging or pulling ear

       o   Fussiness or crying

       o   Trouble sleeping

       o   Fever

       o   Fluid draining from ear

       o   Trouble hearing or responding to quiet sounds.

How is it treated?

Doctors will usually prescribe an antibiotic such as amoxicillin, to be taken for 7-10 days (Ear). Doctors may also recommend over the counter pain relievers. Other recommendations include ear drops to help with the pain and fever. If your doctor isn’t able to make a diagnosis, and your child doesn’t have severe ear pain or a fever, then your doctor may ask you to wait a day or two to see if it goes away.

Can it be prevented?

Every parent wishes there was some sort of way to prevent ear infections. It’s hard for the child, but also for the parent as well. Currently, the best way to prevent ear infections is to reduce the risk factors associated with it. Make sure to vaccinate your children against the flu and make sure they get it every year. Wash your hands frequently which can help prevent flu and cold symptoms. Another suggestion is to keep your children away from sick children. That can sometimes be hard especially if they’re at a daycare or babysitting service.

Even though ear infections can’t be prevented there are ways to help prevent it. Keep an eye on the child if they start to show symptoms and take them to the doctor when you see fit.

References

Ear Infections in Children. (2017, February 13). Retrieved February 27, 2017, from https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/ear-infections-children