Many of us remember the uncomfortable ear infections we had as children. If you have kids of your own now, you might end up caring for them while they deal with their own ear infections.
How Likely Are Ear Infections in Children?
Your ears have thin canals called Eustachian tubes that balance pressure and drain fluid. Ear infections occur when the Eustachian tubes fail to drain properly, allowing fluid to accumulate and become infected. Because children have small Eustachian tubes, infections are more common in them than in adults, with five out of six children having at least one by their third birthday.
Do Ear Infections Require Treatment?
Most ear infections resolve on their own, but severe or long-lasting cases often require antibiotics. In most cases, treatment will focus on keeping your child comfortable while the infection runs its course.
How Can I Make My Child More Comfortable?
There are a few tried-and-true ways to help your child feel better when they have an ear infection:
- Pain relievers. Pain relievers like aspirin and acetaminophen can help manage the intensity of your child’s symptoms and lower their fever.
- Warm and compresses. Alternating warm and cold compresses minimizes inflammation. Start by soaking a washcloth in warm water and wringing it out thoroughly. Have your child hold the towel gently against their ear. Next, repeat the process with cold water.
- Fluids. Ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids, such as water or juice, to thin any mucus that may be contributing to blocked Eustachian tubes.
- Ice cream. Ice cream isn’t a treatment for an ear infection, but it’s a time-honored way to help your kids feel better when they’re sick. Pick up their favorite Edison’s Ice Cream flavor or grab a box of popsicles to bring them a little happiness when they’re feeling down.
If your child has frequent ear infections, they may be a good candidate for ear tubes. The tubes, placed in the ears during a 10-minute procedure, let air into the middle ear to help fluid drain. After about 12 to 18 months, the tube will fall out on its own, and your child’s eardrum will heal.
Schedule an ENT Appointment Today
For more information about managing your child’s ear infection or to schedule an ear tube consultation, contact Alpine Ear Nose & Throat PC today.