The Questions You Have About Ear Infections Answered
Ear infections are one of the most common reasons doctors see young patients. Most children have at least one ear infection in their youth and many have more than one. Since ear infections can happen any time of the year, it makes sense that a lot of parents have questions about them. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions regarding ear infections.
What Is An Ear Infection And What Causes It?
An ear infection occurs when the middle of the ear has infected fluid in it. A doctor can look into a child’s ear and see the infection. It is caused when the fluid is trapped in that area and is not able to drain. The area can become inflamed and the fluid can become infected when it doesn’t drain away as it should.
What Are The Common Symptoms?
Ear infections present themselves in a number of ways, but most children will have ear pain, even if they can’t tell you that something hurts. Many will also have a fever, but this can commonly occur with a cold or allergies. Watch for children who are irritable, have trouble sleeping, lose their appetite, pull at their ears, or do not feel well in general.
Do Children Always Need Antibiotics?
The doctor will prescribe antibiotics based on a number of factors. They will take the child’s age and history of ear infections into consideration along with the severity of the infection. The body can clear up these infections on its own, but antibiotics can ease the pain and take things to a healthier level in a faster manner.
What Is The Best Way To Relieve Pain?
If you’ve ever had an ear infection as an adult, you know they hurt. They’re even worse for a child because they don’t understand what’s going on. Over the counter medications can help, as well as warm compresses on their ears to help reduce the pain.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Most children will feel better 2-3 days after they are diagnosed and start antibiotics. If improvements don’t happen within that timeframe, another trip to the doctor may be warranted.
Why Do Some Children Get Repeated Ear Infections?
Some children are more susceptible to ear infections than others and there can be a genetic component to that. Children with multiple ear infections should see an Ear, Nose and Throat doctor to evaluate if there’s something going on that can reduce their frequency. Ear infections can’t be avoided completely, but there might be some recommendations and changes the parents can make to prevent them.
Who Should We See About Ear Infections?
You can go to your pediatrician or family doctor about ear infections, but you are also welcome to visit Breathe Clear Institute, especially if your child has recurring issues with ear infections. We want to get to the bottom of the issue to prevent this from happening to your child.