Ear Infections in Children

by Kevin Smith Author

Ear infections are one of the most common illnesses suffered by children. Some children can have multiple ear infections over the course of a year. Children have shorter Eustachian tubes than adults, which contribute to children's tendency to get more ear infections than adults. Children tend to suffer from ear infections during colds, which spread bacteria to the ears.

How to Tell if Your Child Has an Ear Infection

A child who can talk will probably tell you if their ear hurts. For babies and younger children who can't speak yet, the signs may not be so clear and might come across as a simple cold. Fevers and crying are two major symptoms of ear infections in very young children, which makes the illness look like a common cold.

When you bring your child to pediatricians near Tahlequah, OK, they will examine your child's ear and note whether or not ear infection symptoms are present. If so, they may prescribe an antibiotic or other medication to help clear it up.

Home Care for Ear Infections

If a child's ear infection lasts longer than a few days, then the ear needs to be examined by a doctor. In the meantime, you can help soothe your child's pain with a few at-home treatments.

One of the best ways to relieve the pain of an ear infection is using a heating pad. If your child is old enough to talk, have them press the heating pad on their ear. (Don't use a heating pad with a baby because they won't be able to tell you if the heat is too high.)

Ask your child to sit up or help prop them up in bed with a few extra pillows. Staying upright will help fluid drain from the ear. Over-the-counter children's decongestant can also help relieve the pressure on the ear.

Visiting the Doctor

Ear infections can be very painful. If they go untreated, they can damage your child's ear. Make an appointment with a pediatrician as soon as possible after you've discovered your child has an ear infection.

Your pediatrician will examine the child's ear and prescribe medication and other treatment. If the child has regular ear infections or especially severe infection, your doctor might refer them to an ear-nose-and-throat specialist for an in-depth examination.

Call your pediatricians near Tahlequah, OK if you suspect your child is suffering from an ear infection.