The Effects of Ear Infections on Taste Buds in Children

Damage to and loss of taste buds can cause a mild to severe loss of taste; and in many cases middle-ear infections are the cause. If ear infections are severe and chronic in childhood, the damage can be permanent.

The Facts

• Ear infections are the most common childhood ailment, with most children having at least one infection by the age of 2. A main nerve for taste buds runs directly through the middle ear. Chronic infections of the middle ear can cause damage to this nerve and subsequent loss of taste buds.

Taste Buds

• Taste buds are partly responsible for the way we experience foods and flavors. When we eat, taste cells are stimulated and send the message to our brain through three specialized taste nerves.

Ear Infections

• Ear infections are caused by bacteria and other germs gathering in the middle ear causing fluid and pus to build up. This can cause pressure and a lot of pain and may need to be treated with both pain reliever and antibiotics.

Obesity Connection

• In a study presented at the 116th annual American Psychological Association convention in 2008, it was found that people with a history of ear infections as children are 62 percent more likely to be obese, the Telegraph in London reports. Because of the damage done to taste buds from their ear infections, the study suggests that food preferences change greatly. Preferences for stronger-flavored food, which are typically higher in sugar and fat, help to compensate for the loss of taste.

Treatment

• Treatment of ear infections starts with a prompt visit to the child's doctor. He will examine the ear and decide on the proper course of action. If ear infections become chronic, your child's doctor may suggest a more aggressive approach to prevention.