Childhood ear infections are common occurrences, but doctors are less likely to immediately prescribe antibiotics to treat them. Because of the growing resistance to antibiotics, ear infections in kids over 6 months old are not always treated with medication. Depending on the severity of the infection, doctors may decide to wait to see whether the infection will clear on its own before resorting to antibiotics. However, for babies under 6 months, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that doctors always treat right away because of their weaker immune system and greater risk of complications. Incorporate natural remedies into your treatment plan to help alleviate ear pain and make your child more comfortable.
Causes
Ear infections usually occur when fluid accumulates in the middle ear. The middle ear is an air-filled space located behind the eardrum. Usually, fluid in the middle ear is drained through the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the throat and nose. However, when the Eustachian tube is blocked, because of a cold, sinusitis or allergies, the fluid stays in the middle ear and an infection can occur. Most ear infections are caused by a virus or bacteria. Infants and young children are more at risk for ear infections because of the size of their Eustachian tubes.
Symptoms
Infants suffering from an ear infection are usually irritable and tend to cry more than usual, especially while feeding, because the swallowing and sucking may be painful for the child. Babies with ear infections often have a fever than can go as high as 104 degrees Fahrenheit. An ear infection may cause difficulty sleeping or a yellowish or blood-tinged discharge from the ear.
Natural Remedies
Take some simple steps to alleviate your child's earache pain. Hold a warm compress to her ear to ease pain and help fluids drain. Elevate the child by placing something under the head of her mattress to help reduce pressure caused by the fluid in her ears. Over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can also help relieve the pain. Because little research has been done on alternative treatments to treat ear infections, they are not recommended, according to the Mayo Clinic. Discuss treatment options with a doctor and get his or her approval before trying anything at home.
Prevention
Breastfeeding can reduce the occurrence of ear infections in infants because of the antibodies that babies receive through breastmilk. Prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria to babies by washing your hands frequently. Do not give infants any objects that have been in contact with other people's saliva, such as bottles, toys or pacifiers. Keep your child away from secondhand smoke because it can elevate the risk of infection. Also, when possible, keep the child's head higher than the rest of his body. Babies who are fed while lying down are at higher risk of developing an infection, according to Baby Center.
