Ear Infection
An ear infection is an inflammation in the middle of the ear. It is one the most common reasons parents bring their children into see a doctor. In fact, five out of six children will have had an ear infection by the time they are three years of age. Ear infections are not contagious. However, the viruses that sometimes cause them can be. Depending on the type of ear infection and how soon you visit the doctor, an ear infection can last anywhere from 2-4 days or longer.
What causes an ear infection ?
In a child, an ear infection often begins as a sore throat, cold or upper respiratory infection. These same bacteria spread to the ear, causing inflammation and fluid buildup behind the eardrum.
Children are more likely than adults to get ear infections for a few of the following reasons :
- The tubes in the ears are shorter, narrower and less stiff, which allows bacteria and viruses to find their way more easily than with adults. It also makes it more difficult for fluid to drain out of the ears.
- A child's immune system is still developing and not as effective as most adults. Making it harder to fight off infection.
- Childcare attendance.
- Exposure to secondhand smoke.
What are some of the symptoms of an ear infection ?
There are three types of ear infections each with a different set of symptoms. Below are a few you should recognize. Contact our office for an appointment if your child is having any of the following symptoms :
- Tugging or pulling at the ear
- Fussiness, irritability, crying
- Difficulty sleeping
- Fever
- Lack of appetite
- Problems with balance
- Difficulty hearing
- Fluid draining from the ear
Can ear infections be prevented ?
There is no way to prevent your child from ever getting an ear infection, but there are some ways you can reduce the risk factors.
- Make sure your child gets the flu vaccination.
- Wash hands frequently and thoroughly.
- Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke.
- Limit your child's exposure to other sick children when possible.
- Do not put your baby in bed with their bottle.