Ear Infections
Otitis media is an infection of
the middle ear. There are two types. Once type is caused by
bacteria or viruses (germs) that grow and cause pus to form behind the
eardrum. This type is usually very painful. The other type
occurs when the tube leading from the throat to the middle ear is
blocked or not working correctly. Mucus builds up behind the
eardrum. The second type is not as painful. Both types of
ear infections may cause hearing loss if not treated. If your
child shows signs of ear infection, he or she should be seen by a
doctor as soon as possible.
Symptoms of Painful Otitus Media
- Pulling or rubbing the ears or rolling the head from side to side
- Fussiness
- Crying that does not stop when the child is comforted, especially at night
- Waking up at night crying
- Fever over 101oF under the arm
- Loss of appetite
- Infants will not suck because it causes pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Symptoms of Less Painful Otitus Media
If your child is old enough to tell you, he may complain of:
- A feeling of fullness in the ear
- A popping feeling when swallowing
- Dizziness
- A feeling of motion in the ear
- Ringing in the ears
- You may notice that your child does not hear you when you speak
- Your child may turn up the volume on the TV or radio or sit very close to it.
Medicines
If your doctor orders medicine, make sure you give all that is ordered, even though your child feels well. Your child needs to take all of the medicine to completely cure the ear infection.How To Help Prevent Ear Infections
Most children get ear infections, but there are a few things parents can do to try to prevent them:
- See that your child is dressed properly in cold and rainy weather. (However, wearing a hat to protect the ears will not prevent an ear infection.)
- Always hold your baby (with his head up) during feeding time. The baby should not be fed by propping the bottle or while he is lying flat because the formula can get into the middle ear and cause an infection.
- Do not leave a bottle in the crib for the baby to drink at bedtime.
- If your child needs to blow his nose, have him blow gently with his mouth open to prevent forcing drainage into his middle ear.
- Encourage your child to eat healthy foods and liquids instead of "junk food."
- Make sure his immunizations are up to date.
- Keep your child away from cigarette smoke. do not smoke or allow any smoking in your home or car.
Follow-up Appointments
After your child has taken the medicine your doctor may want to check your child's ears again. Be sure to keep this appointment.
