Ear Ache

A special tube called the Eustachian tube connects the middle ear and the back of the throat.  The tube is narrow in young children so it can become blocked, especially with a cold.  This blockage can lead to an infection. Some ear infections are due to viruses and some are due to bacteria.  Antibiotics might be prescribed for an ear infection, but 70-80% of children who have an ear infection will get better without an antibiotic.

Prevention:

• Wash your hands frequently and teach your child about handwashing since most ear infections occur after a cold.
• Avoid exposing your child to second hand smoke.
• Limit exposure to irritating substances.
• Do not give your child a bottle to drink while lying down.

Symptoms:

• Fever
• Ear pain
• Irritability

Treatment:

• Place a warm cloth over the outside of the ear.
• Antihistamines and decongestants do not help an ear infection.
• Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics after examination of your child’s ears.
• If your child has had many ear infections within a short period, your doctor may recommend surgery to put tubes in the ears to help the ears to drain.
• Because of the risk of antibiotic resistance, it is no longer recommended to give antibiotics for prolonged periods to prevent ear infections.
• For further information on Fever, please see More Fever Links.

When to seek medical attention:

Children:  See your doctor if your child. . .

• Is less than 6 months of age
• Is between 6 and 24 months of age and is not getting better after 24 hours
• Is over 2 years of age and is not getting better after 3 days
• Has a loss of balance
• Has swelling and redness behind the ear