Understanding And Treating Chronic Ear Infections In Children

As a parent, you want your child to be both healthy and happy. Unfortunately, certain medical issues may arise, causing your child some discomfort while causing you a great deal of emotional distress. Ear infections are a common issue that many children develop. Actually, three out of four children will have an ear infection by their third birthday. However, some children suffer from chronic ear infections that require more than prescription antibiotics. With this guide, you will learn the signs, causes, and treatment options for chronic ear infections in children.

Signs of Ear Infections

Knowing the signs of ear infections will help you understand if your child has chronic infections. If your child is tugging at their ear or complaining of headaches and pain in and around their ear, they most likely have an infection.

Muffled hearing and a fever are also signs of an infection. Some infections can be so severe nausea and vomiting will also be a problem.

Treating these infections will usually involve prescription antibiotics. In some instances, the antibiotics are effective for a short period, allowing the infection to come back. Or, the antibiotics are not effective at all. Your doctor will most likely suggest further tests to determine the cause of the chronic or recurring infections.

Causes of Chronic Ear Infections

Most children who have chronic ear infections have an issue with their Eustachian tube. This tube is responsible for draining fluid from the inner ear. If the fluid is unable to drain out of the tube properly, the fluid will cause the tube to become inflamed and swollen, building up inside the inner ear and causing an infection.

Children who have allergies, sinus problems, or enlarged or infected adenoids or tonsils will most likely develop chronic ear infections because the Eustachian tube is inflamed, swollen, or incapable of proper drainage.

Treating Chronic Ear Infections

Placing tubes into the Eustachian tube is one of the most effective options for treating your child's chronic ear infections.

During the procedure, the surgeon will insert a tiny tube into the eardrum. This tube opens up the Eustachian tube, reducing swelling and inflammation while improving the drainage of fluid.

If your child's chronic infection stem from enlarged or swollen adenoids or tonsils, surgical removal will be recommended.

Living with chronic ear infections is possible, but it can be physically and emotionally stressful. With proper understanding and help from your child's pediatrician, you will learn the causes and treatment options for chronic ear infections. 

Reach out to a clinic like Kitsap Children's Clinic LLP for more information.

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