Ear infections are one of the most common reasons to see a pediatrician. According to the National Institute of Health, most children will have at least one ear infection by the time they reach three years old. Kids have short, horizontal eustachian tubes—the canal that connects the ear and the throat—which traps germs in their ears, blocking the opening, and causing problems.
Ear infection symptoms often show up after a cold, sore throat, or respiratory infection. When kids contract colds, inflammation can build up in their ears and throat. When the ears are plugged, chances of an infection increase. Keep an eye out for:
- A fever
- Balance issues
- Difficulty hearing
- Ear pain that’s worse at night
- Fluid draining from the ear
- Pulling at the ears
If symptoms are not severe, pediatricians may first recommend waiting to see if the condition clears on its own. If not, the provider may prescribe antibiotics, and once the infection clears it may still take children several weeks to feel normal due to fluid build up behind the eardrum.
Ear infections may not be avoidable, but there are steps your family can take to decrease the chance of your child getting one. Ensure your littles are vaccinated against the flu and other childhood viruses. Encourage frequent hand-washing and avoid play-dates with friends who are sick.
“If ear infections keep happening, you may want to see an Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist,” says Kristina Manion, DO, otolaryngologist, Northern Light AR Gould Hospital. “If your child experiences three ear infections in six months or four in a year, they may be a candidate for ear tubes, which help increase airflow to the middle ear and decrease the chance of an infection.”
Otolaryngologists at Northern Light Ear, Nose, and Throat Care are adept at determining the best options to help out little ones with chronic ear infections. Ask your child’s pediatrician today for a referral.