5 Things All Parents Should Know About Ear Infections
Source:https://www.parents.com/health
Ear infections are common in children, with over 80% experiencing at least one by age three. Although their incidence has decreased due to the pneumococcal vaccine, around 16 million kids still visit pediatricians for these infections annually. Children under two are especially vulnerable because their immune systems are developing, and their eustachian tubes are narrower and more horizontal, making fluid drainage difficult when they have a cold. This can lead to fluid buildup and infection. Understanding key facts about ear infections can help parents manage and prevent this uncomfortable condition for their children.
Teething Can Be Confused With Baby Ear Infections: When toddlers tug at their ears, it can indicate an ear infection, but it might also be a sign of teething, as nerves in the back teeth can cause ear-like pain. Symptoms like fever and discomfort while lying down suggest an ear infection, while red, swollen gums point to teething. However, these symptoms can also be linked to various illnesses or just a tough day for the child. If you suspect something is wrong, especially if a fever is present, it’s wise to consult your pediatrician.
Antibiotics Are Not Always the Answer: About 60% of ear infections in children are bacterial, while 40% are viral and not treatable with antibiotics. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends fewer unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions, allowing the immune system to fight the infection for two to three days. Studies show that around 80% of middle-ear infections resolve on their own within a week, with many children experiencing symptom relief within 24 hours, regardless of antibiotic use. “Watchful waiting” is advised for healthy children aged 6 months to 2 years with mild symptoms and for older children without severe symptoms. During this time, pain relief options like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be suggested, and parents should contact the doctor if symptoms do not improve.
If Your Child Has Chronic Ear Infections, See a Specialist: Pediatricians often refer children to an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT) after three infections in six months or four within a year. Frequent infections can affect a child’s hearing and language development. During an ENT examination, the option of inserting tympanostomy tubes may be discussed to reduce infection risk and improve hearing. This procedure, commonly performed on children aged 1 to 3, involves making a small incision in the eardrum to insert a tiny tube that allows air to flow and fluid to drain. While the tubes don’t improve eustachian tube function, they may help resolve ear problems as the child grows. A study found that 90% of parents reported improvements in their child’s ear issues and quality of life after the surgery.
Ear Infections Can Still Happen With Ear Tubes: While surgery to insert tympanostomy tubes can reduce the frequency and severity of ear infections in children, it doesn’t guarantee that infections will stop entirely. Children may still experience occasional infections, particularly during colds, but these tend to result in less fever and pain. The most common sign of infection in children with tubes is painless drainage from the ear. Additionally, instead of oral antibiotics, children with tubes can use antibiotic ear drops, as the tubes allow the medication to directly reach the middle ear.
A Burst Ear Drum Sounds Scary, But Don’t Panic: A ruptured or perforated eardrum occurs when the tympanic membrane has a hole due to pressure from fluid buildup, often caused by an ear infection. This condition can be quite painful and may temporarily affect hearing. Fortunately, the hole typically heals on its own relatively quickly. In some cases, prescription ear drops may be necessary, and very rarely, surgery might be required.
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