Understanding Ear Infections in Children

Ear infections are quite prevalent among children. Children are more prone to ear infections compared to adults, with many experiencing at least one by the age of three

Ear infections occur particularly in the area behind the eardrum. These infections arise when bacteria or viruses invade and accumulate fluid behind the eardrum, resulting in pain and the inflammation or swelling of the eardrum.

Ear infections are one of the most common reasons parents seek medical attention for their children. Risk factors for ear infections include family history, age, allergies, common cold, and chronic illnesses.

Ear infections are not contagious and cannot be spread from one person to another.

Symptoms of Ear Infection in Children

Symptoms of an ear infection in children may include fever, drainage from the ear, ear pain, poor sleep, irritability, trouble hearing, and loss of appetite.

Most ear infections go away between 7 to 10 days, though some may experience symptoms that last up to a week.

Diagnosis and Treatments for Ear Infection in Children

The doctor will examine your child's ear by using an otoscope A healthy eardrum will be translucent (clear) and pinkish grey in colour. Infection is indicated by redness, swelling, and inflammation of the eardrum.

The doctor will also use a stethoscope to listen to your child's breathing and check their throat and nasal passages for signs of upper respiratory infections that may lead to ear infections.

Ear infections are typically treated based on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause.

If the ear infection is bacterial, antibiotics may be prescribed to eliminate the infection. The doctor may also prescribe over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate pain and reduce fever associated with ear infections.

Ear drops may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. These drops are typically used for outer ear infections.

If the ear infection is associated with congestion or sinusitis, decongestants may be recommended to relieve nasal congestion and improve drainage from the Eustachian tube.

Long-term Effects of Untreated Ear Infections

It is important to get proper treatment for your child because untreated ear infections can lead to complications such as hearing loss or the spread of infection to nearby structures.

• Tear in the eardrum: The pressure from fluid buildup in the middle ear can result in a tear in the eardrum. Surgery might be required if the tear fails to heal naturally. Avoid inserting anything into the ear canal if your child has drainage or discharge, as it could pose a risk. Direct contact with the eardrum could be harmful if an object is inserted incorrectly.
• Loss of hearing: An ear infection commonly leads to mild, temporary hearing impairment, often manifesting as a slight muffling or distortion of sound. However, if infections persist or recur frequently, and if fluid buildup damages internal ear structures, more severe and lasting hearing loss may occur.
• Spread of infection: If left untreated or only partially resolved with treatment, an infection in the ear can potentially spread beyond the ear itself. The nearby mastoid bone, located behind the ear, may become affected by the infection. In rare instances, the contamination can extend to the layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord (meninges), leading to meningitis.
• Delayed speech and language: For children to develop speech and language skills, they rely on their ability to hear. Any period of impaired hearing or loss of hearing can significantly delay or impede their progress in speech and language acquisition.

Prevention of Ear Infections in Children

Prevent ear infections in children by watching out for mouth breathing or snoring, breastfeeding your baby, and watching out for and mitigating allergies.

Make an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals

If you want to know more about ear infection in children, get in touch with us to book an appointment today for a consultation, or visit our Paediatric Care Department at your nearest Gleneagles Hospital.