Baby Ear Infection

It is not uncommon for babies to get ear infection during childhood. Most ear infections are otitis media or middle ear infections. Many babies are found to recover from such infections without taking antibiotics. However, its frequent occurrence in kids becomes a major concern for the parents. Additionally, it may be quite difficult to identify the signs and symptoms of this problem in very young children or infants.

Causes of Ear Infection in Children
Babies are more susceptible to ear infections, as their Eustachian tubes are not only shorter than the adults, but are also horizontal. As a result, the Eustachian tubes tends to get more easily blocked and so, fluid easily build up in the area behind the eardrum. This usually happens after an episode of common cold, sinus infection or due to allergy. The trapped fluid in the middle ear provides a favorable breeding ground for germs and bacteria, which eventually lead to infection of the ear. Such ear infections are commonly known as acute otitis media (AOM). Babies usually do not have a fully developed immune system, for which they are more likely to get this problem. Sometimes, infection of the adenoids, which are located near the Eustachian tube can also cause this infection. It is more common during the fall and winter. It has also been observed that children exposed to smoke, especially tobacco smoke are more likely to get it.

Signs and Symptoms of Ear Infection in Children
It can be a bit difficult to detect in young children. However, with careful observation, you can observe the following symptoms:

• Tugging or pulling at the affected ear
• Crying more than usual or fussiness
• Irritability
• Insomnia or trouble in sleeping
• Clear or slightly yellowish fluid draining from the ear
• Not responding to sounds
• Fever, higher than 100° C
• Reduced appetite
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Flushed cheeks

Ear Infection Treatment for Children
Most of the time, minor infection of the middle ear clears up on its own without requiring any treatment. Physicians usually detect the infection by examining the toddler's ear with otoscope. If the infection is not very severe, then most physicians prefer to wait for some time before prescribing any medication. But, if the it does not clear up within a day or two, then appropriate medications would be required for effective treatment. To relieve the symptoms such as ear pain, physicians may recommend infant acetaminophen and ibuprofen. However, children should never be given aspirin, as aspirin can increase the risk for developing Reye's syndrome.

Sometimes, ear drop are also prescribed by the pediatrician, especially if there is no drainage from the ears. Antibiotics are usually prescribed only when the infection and the symptoms produced by it are severe. Antibiotics are generally given to babies older than 6 months. Apart from these, antihistamines and decongestants are occasionally used, especially if the infection is due to allergies. However, parents should never give any over-the-counter or prescription drugs to their children without consulting a pediatrician.

Parents can also try out a few home remedies to treat mild infection of the ear. One such home remedy is warm compress. Warm compress applied to the affected ear can prove immensely helpful in comforting the child by reducing the ear pain and other uncomfortable symptoms. Elevating the head when your child is sleeping can also help to relieve its symptoms. But, do not use a pillow for this; instead raise the head of your child's mattress.

How to Prevent Ear Infection in Babies?
With a few precautionary measures, parents can significantly lower its risk in their young children. Breastfeeding the child for at least 6 months, holding the child in an upright position while feeding and keeping the baby away from smoke, especially tobacco smoke can help to prevent it in children. Also, be sure to keep your child away from other sick children, and get him or her vaccinated against certain illnesses like, flu and pneumonia.

If your child is getting this infection too frequently, then talk to your pediatrician. Sometimes, ear tubes are recommended by some pediatrician to prevent its recurrence. For inserting ear tubes, a small incision is made in the eardrum and the tube is inserted in the opening. The tube helps to drain the fluid and relieves the pressure inside the ear. This surgical procedure is however carried out only when the physicians feel that the child is prone to hearing loss due to recurrent infection and persistent presence of fluid in the ears. Lastly, you might come across certain commonly used home remedies like, chamomile, goldenseal, garlic and Echinacea, which many people have found quite helpful. But, before trying any such home remedy, be sure to confirm with your pediatrician.