Recurrent Ear Infections in Babies

Recurrent ear infections are relatively common in babies and toddlers. They can be very uncomfortable and in severe cases, may lead to hearing loss. Recurrent ear infections have a variety of causes, treatments and preventative measures.

Definition

• A child is considered to have recurrent ear infections if he has had more than three ear infections in six months or more than four in one year.

Treatment

• A combination of antibiotics such as amoxicillin and pain relievers such as ibuprofen are the first line of treatment for acute ear infections.

Minimizing Risk

• Breastfeeding is the most important way to prevent recurrent ear infections. Other avoidable causes include day care centers, a low-vegetable diet and secondhand smoke exposure.

Medical Prevention

• Some doctors will prescribe prophylactic antibiotics as a preventative for recurrent ear infections, but these have side effects and can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Ear Tubes

• As a last resort, some doctors will prescribe surgically implanted drainage tubes, which can help the ears to expel fluid more effectively. These are usually used only for children with hearing loss or very frequent ear infections (more than five in a year).