The middle ear is the space behind the eardrum. The eustachian tubes connect the ears to the nasal passage. They help drain normal fluids and equalize pressure in the ear. These tubes are shorter and more horizontal in children, so they are more likely to become blocked. As a result of a blockage, fluid and pressure build up in the middle ear. If bacteria or fungi grow in the fluid, an ear infection results. This is called acute otitis media. It is more commonly known as an earache.
The main symptom of an ear infection is ear pain. The child may also have reduced ability to hear in that ear. The ear infection may be preceded by a respiratory infection.
After an ear infection is treated and has cleared, the middle ear may still contain fluid buildup. This fluid may take weeks or months to go away. During that time, your child may have temporary reduced hearing. But all other symptoms of the earache should be gone.
HOME CARE:
Medications : The doctor will likely prescribe medications for pain. The doctor may also prescribe medications for infection (antibiotics or antifungals). Because ear infections can clear up on their own, the doctor may suggest a waiting period of a few days before giving the child medications for infection. Medications may be in liquid form to give orally or as eardrops. Closely follow the doctor's instructions for using medications.
To Apply Eardrops:
If the eardrop medication is refrigerated, put the bottle in warm water before using. Cold drops in the ear are uncomfortable.
Have your child lie down on a flat surface. Gently hold the child's head to one side.
Remove any drainage from the ear with a clean tissue or cotton swab. Clean only the outer ear. Do not insert the cotton swab into the ear canal.
Straighten the ear canal by pulling the earlobe up and back.
Keep the dropper 1/2 inch above the ear canal to avoid contamination. Apply the drops against the side of the ear canal.
Have your child stay lying down for 2 to 3 minutes. This gives time for the medication to enter the ear canal. If your child does not have pain, gently massage the outer ear near the opening.
Wipe excess medication away from the outer ear with a clean cotton ball.
General Care:
To reduce pain, have your child rest in an upright position. Hot or cold compresses held against the ear may help relieve pain.
Keep the ear dry. Have your child wear a shower cap when bathing.
Avoid smoking near your child. Smoking has been shown to increase the incidence of ear infections in children.
FOLLOW UP as advised by the doctor or our staff.
SPECIAL NOTES TO PARENTS : If your child continues to get earaches, the doctor may talk to you about inserting small tubes in the child's eardrum to help prevent fluid buildup. This is a simple and effective surgical procedure.
GET PROMPT MEDICAL ATTENTION if any of the following occur:
Fever greater than 100.4°F (35°C) oral
New symptoms, especially swelling around the ear or weakness of face muscles
Severe pain
Infection that seems to get worse, not better
© 2000-2012 Krames StayWell, 780 Township Line Road, Yardley, PA 19067. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.