Otitis media and otitis externa are ear infections that cause fluid to ooze from toddler's ears. Otitis media is the most likely culprit since three out of four children get at least one of this type of ear infection by their third birthdays, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Consult with your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Identification
If your toddler has otitis media, fluid draining from the ear is a possible symptom. Swelling and redness are also present in the middle ear. Fluid becomes trapped behind the ear drum, which is painful and causes the most discomfort when your toddler is lying down. Sleeping difficulties, tugging on the ears frequently and becoming irritable are common symptoms. If otitis externa is causing the pain, your toddler's infection starts with itching in the ear canal and clear fluid draining from the ear. The ear is uncomfortable at first. However, as the infection progresses, the infection becomes painful, and more fluid discharges from the ears.
Cause
The anatomy of your toddler's ear makes him more prone to otitis media and otitis externa. The eustachian tubes drain fluid from the ear. However, the tubes of children are smaller and more horizontal; this keeps fluid trapped in the ear. If the tubes are blocked because of a respiratory infection, the fluid is unable to drain, and the ear becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. Toddlers also have large adenoids that respond to bacteria which pass through the nose and mouth. Bacteria becomes trapped in the adenoids and blocks the opening of the eustachian tubes. Fluid pushing on the eardrum sometimes causes the eardrum to rupture; this leads to fluid oozing from the ear. Otitis externa is most commonly known as swimmer's ear because it's caused by excess moisture in the ear. Since toddlers have narrow ear canals, water gets trapped easily and leads to an infection. Small breaks in the skin can also allow bacteria to grow.
Treatment
Many otitis media infections disappear without treatment, so doctors often wait a couple days before prescribing antibiotics. If the pain persists, antibiotics are usually prescribed for seven to 10 days. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen is given to relieve pain. Avoid aspirin since it increases your child's risk of Reye's syndrome, a potentially fatal condition. If your toddler has several recurrent infections of otitis media, tubes are surgically inserted to drain fluid from the middle ear. If your toddler has otitis externa, ear drops are prescribed that have a combination of an acidic solution, steroid and antibiotic. An antifungal medication is needed if fungus is in the ear. If there is too much discharge in the ear, a wick is used to help drain the ear and get medicine into the canal.
Prevention
The best way to prevent oozing of the ear from a middle ear infection is to prevent upper respiratory infections. Keep your toddler's immunizations up-to-date; avoid close contact with people who appear ill. Encourage members of your household to wash their hands frequently, especially during cold and flu seasons. Prevent otitis externa by keeping the ears dry. Mix one part white vinegar and one part rubbing alcohol to create a solution. Pour one teaspoon of the solution in each ear before and after swimming. Do not use cotton swabs to clean your toddler's ear; never place your finger or other objects in the ear canal.
