Signs of Ear Infection in Infants

Otitis media is the most common kind of ear infection in infants and young children. Ear infections are common because the eustachian tubes become clogged easily and fluid builds up. That acts as a breeding area for bacteria and viruses that cause infection.

Signs of Infection

• Often infants who have an ear infection have a fever and are very irritable. The infant might not be sleeping well, crying more than usual and appetite might be less than normal.

Causes

• Ear infections can be caused by a cold or sinus infection, allergies, exposure to tobacco smoke, infected or overgrown adenoids, or excessive mucous and saliva produced during teething.

Risk Factors

• Infants who are bottle-fed have a higher risk of ear infection because of the laying down position during feeding, promoting fluid build-up in the ear. Other risk factors are a recent ear infection or illness, attending a daycare with six or more other infants, pacifier use, genetics, changes in altitude or climate, and cold weather.

Pain Management

• Applying a warm cloth to the affected ear can bring some relief from the pain associated with an ear infection. Prescription or over-the-counter ear drops and pain relief medication such Tylenol can also help relieve some of the discomfort.

Treatment

• Your infant's pediatrician will determine whether to prescribe an antibiotic to treat the ear infection. If an antibiotic is prescribed, make sure to finish the entire course to make sure the infection is cleared up.

Treatment for Recurrent Infections

• In some infants who have several ear infections in a six-month period, doctors will recommend surgery to put in tubes to aid in drainage of fluid. In some cases, doctors will put an infant on antibiotics to try to prevent recurrent infections.