An ear infection occurs when germs from the throat and nose grow and cause an infection in the middle ear, the part of the ear just behind the eardrum. Ear Infections can be painful due to the inflammation and fluid build-up behind the eardrum. Anyone can get an ear infection, but kids get it more often because their Eustachian tubes are blocked easily. A recent research shows that five out of six children get at least one ear infection by their third birthday. Here are some essential details you should know about an ear infection.
What causes an ear infection?
An ear infection occurs when one of the Eustachian tubes becomes swollen and fluid accumulates in the middle ear. Eustachian tubes are that run from the directly to the throat. Some common causes of Eustachian tube blockage include:
* Sinus infections
* Swollen or infected adenoids
* Excess mucous
* Colds
* Allergies
* Tobacco smoking
What are the symptoms of an ear infection?
The primary symptom of an ear infection is earache. The pain can be either mild or severe. Children may be fussy. They may cry, pull their ears, or may even have trouble sleeping. Depending on the nature of the infection, you may notice a thick, yellow fluid coming from their ears. This occurs when the infection has caused the eardrum to burst, and the fluid flows out. Other symptoms and signs of an ear infection may include:
* Difficulty hearing or responding to sounds
* Loss of appetite
* Headache
* Loss of balance
* Fever of 38C (100F) or higher
When should you visit a doctor?
It is important to note that the symptoms of an ear infection can be due to a number of conditions. Contact your doctor only if:
* Pain is severe
* Symptoms last for more than a day
* You observe pus or bloody discharge from the ear
* Your child is sleepless
Most Ear Infections go away on their own, even though antibiotics are recommended for kids under the age of two and for those patients at a high risk for complications. Home treatment methods for an ear infection include placing a heating pad or warm washcloth on the ear and using over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol. Your doctor may also give your child ear drops such as Aurodex to relieve pain. For more information about ear infection treatment, visit us.
