The technical name for the common type of ear infection suffered by children is otitis media, or infection of the middle ear. These infections usually are caused by bacteria and result in frequent trips to the pediatrician's office. Middle ear infections differ from swimmer's ear, which is an infection caused by bacteria, fungi or irritants that enter from outside the ear.
Symptoms of Ear Infection
An infant with an ear infection may cry frequently and be difficult to soothe. He also may run a fever or have other cold symptoms. Older children might report ear pain or loss of hearing in one ear. They also may experience vomiting or diarrhea along with symptoms of a cold. Although many parents look for signs such as pulling on or touching the ears, doctors have found that children tug their ears just as frequently when they are not infected.
Causes of Ear Infection
The Eustachian tubes run from the middle ear into the throat and allow fluid to drain out of the ear. Middle ear infections occur when fluid builds up in the tubes due to blockage or swelling. This fluid provides a home for bacteria and can lead to infection. For this reason, ear infections are common when colds or allergies cause congestion and swelling or children are exposed to cigarette smoke or other substances that can irritate their noses and throats.
Preventing Ear Infections
Exposure to cold weather does not cause ear infections on its own, but children often get infections more frequently during the winter months because of increased exposure to cold viruses inside schools and day care centers. To reduce the chance that your child will get an ear infection, limit her exposure to sick children and secondhand smoke. Children who were not breastfed and those who use pacifiers also are more likely to have ear infections.
Treating Ear Infections
Your pediatrician may prescribe an antibiotic to treat your child's ear infection, although some ear infections resolve without antibiotics. The doctor also may recommend ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain and fever. Some children might find warm compresses on their ears comforting, while others might find that ice packs help to reduce swelling and pain. Once your child has started an antibiotic and is feeling well enough, she can return to normal activities. It is not necessary to cover your child's ears when she goes outside during ear infection treatment.
