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Ear Infection in Children

Ear infections are practically universal among young children. The National Institute of Health says the most common type of ear infection is behind the eardrum in the middle ear (acute otitis media). This means the area is inflamed and infected. When an ear infection persists indefinitely or when symptoms come and go, it's called chronic otitis media. Ear infections are one of the chief reasons parents take their children to the doctor.

  1. Middle Ear Infections

    • When a middle ear infection is acute, fluid and mucus are briefly locked inside of the middle ear. In chronic otitis media, these clear, slick substances remain stuck in the ear even after the infection goes away. This makes it easier for new infections to surface.

    Why Children are Prone to Ear Infections

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, children under age 3 are most susceptible to ear infections. In fact, the Mayo Clinic says 75 percent of children in that age group experience at least one ear infection. The tubes that attach the middle ear to the inside of the nose (eustachian tubes) are shorter and more horizontal in infants and young children. This makes it more difficult for fluid to drain from the ear.

    Symptoms

    • Middle ear infections can be quite painful. If your child is too young to speak, he may cry and become irritable. Your child may also be unable to hear quiet sounds and have difficulty sleeping due to the pain. Sometimes a yellow or white fluid drains from the ear.

    Treatment

    • The majority of ear infections clear up naturally without the aid of antibiotics. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends antibiotics be prescribed only for infections that continue beyond a few days. The AAP says extensive use of an antibiotic adds to the growth of antibiotic-resistant organisms. Your doctor may prescribe numbing ear drops if your child is in pain.

    Possible Complications

    • In a few cases, the eardrum may rupture when there is excessive pressure placed on the middle ear. Most ruptures heal naturally within months

    Ear Tubes

    • In some cases, ear tubes may be beneficial if fluid stays trapped in the ear for several months. It's possible that the blocked fluid may cause hearing loss or impede speech development. The tubes vent the ears and prevent fluid buildup. Ear tubes are surgically inserted through a tiny opening made in each eardrum. They tend to fall out on their own after a few months.

    Preventing Ear Infections

    • There are many ways to help prevent ear infections. Breast-feeding boosts an infant's immunity to colds and ear infections. Make sure your child is properly immunized and frequently washes his hands. It also helps to keep your child away from people who are sick.

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