Ear Infection

Possible Causes of Ear Infection / Ear Ache
Ear infections are caused by bacteria and viruses. During a cold or virus, the eustachian tubes (the tubes that connect the throat and the middle ear) can easily become blocked because they are shorter and more horizontal in young children than in older children and adults. Blocked tubes prevent ventilation and drainage of fluids from the middle ear, creating an idea environment for bacteria and viruses to multiply and cause infection. Fluid build-up and inflammation can also occur without illness, as well.

Possible Symptoms of Ear Infection / Ear Ache
Symptoms of a middle ear infection include mild or severe ear pain; fever; thick, yellow drainage from the ear; irritability; difficulty sleeping; vomiting; and loss of hearing. Symptoms of fluid build-up include ringing, popping and pressure in the ear; hearing loss, balance problems and dizziness. Babies and young children usually show signs of an ear infection by tugging or pulling on the ear. If blood drains from the ear, then the ear drum has likely ruptured. A ruptured ear drum should repair itself in about two weeks, but the child should see a doctor as soon as possible.

Possible Lifestyle Changes for Ear Infection / Ear Ache
Parents can prevent their children from getting ear infections by not smoking, breast feeding the baby (if possible), washing hands regularly, keeping the child’s immunizations up to date, placing the child in a small daycare (if possible) and avoiding pacifier use. Bottle-fed babies should never take a bottle while laying flat in a crib. Home care for a child with an ear infection should include pain relievers made especially for children, applying a warm washcloth or heating pad to the ear, encouraging rest and using ear drops when prescribed by a doctor. Never give aspirin to anyone younger than 20-years old.