Two types of ear infections can cause earache and are common in children. External otitis, also known as swimmer's ear, is characterized by a swollen ear canal, low-grade fever and throbbing pain that is worse when the earlobe is touched. Otitis media affects the middle ear and often occurs with respiratory tract infections. Inflammation and build up of fluid behind the eardrum causes sharp, dull, or throbbing pain and a high fever. High altitudes and cold air increase discomfort. Treatment choices are based on the severity of infection.
Antibiotics
Parents should not hesitate to bring a child with an earache to the doctor, particularly if symptoms of pain and fever came on rapidly or if the child is very young. The age of the patient influences a doctor's decision to prescribe antibiotics. The American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines state children under the age of 2 are more likely than older children to have severe ear infections.
Most older children get better in a few days when given only fever and pain relievers. A 2001 study published in the British Medical Journal evaluated groups of English children and found those treated immediately with antibiotics recovered one day sooner and needed half a teaspoon less of acetaminophen than untreated children.
Home Remedies
With doctors following a policy of wait-and-see for children over the age of 2, parents are increasingly looking for ways to comfort their kids with earaches. Over-the-counter children's acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help. Do not use allergy or decongestant medications except under the advice of a doctor.
Heat improves circulation and relieves pain. A clean sock filled with uncooked rice and microwaved approximately 3 minutes will provide comforting heat for half an hour. Hot water bottles are also effective. Ear candles are not recommended because of the risk of accidental burns.
Breastfeeding reduces the incidence of children's ear infections and may also provide treatment. Human breast milk contains powerful antibodies that fight infection. A few drops in a child's ear several times a day may shorten the duration of an earache.
External otitis may be caused by a fungal infection. A few drops of warmed vinegar mixed with equal amounts rubbing alcohol is thought to dry trapped fluid and inhibit the growth of pathogens. According to nutritionist Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," warmed garlic or olive oil with a drop or two of mullein or lobelia herbal tincture will relieve pain when placed in the ear and covered with a cotton ball.
Ear Tubes
For children who have recurrent earaches and impaired hearing due to persistent fluid behind the eardrums, doctors may recommend tympanostomy, or surgical placement of tubes in the eardrum. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), this procedure prevents speech problems. Risks are associated with the use of general anesthesia and repeat procedures. Tubes typically remain in the ear a few months and come out by themselves.
References
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Diagnosis and Management of Acute Otitis Media
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch, CNC, 2004
- National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
- "British Medical Journal", Little P, et. al., Pragmatic randomised controlled trial of two prescribing strategies for childhood acute otitis media, Feb 10, 2001
