If your baby or toddler seems unusually distressed, especially if they’re also pulling at their ears, an ear infection might be the cause. Here’s what you need to know about this common childhood problem.
In Australia, it is estimated that more than 80% of the children will have at least one ear infection before they turn three years old. Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander children, children with other medical conditions are more prone to complications from an ear infection.
Types Of Ear Infections
The ear comprises three parts, namely, the outer ear (ear lobe and the ear canal), the middle ear (the portion that is behind the eardrum and is linked to the throat), and the inner ear (this part has nerves that are vital for both sound detection and balance). The two most common ear infections are middle ear infection and the outer ear infection.
- Middle ear infection: Also known as Otitis Media, is an infection in the fluid behind the eardrum or the middle part of the ear. Middle ear is connected to the throat by a short tube known as the Eustachian tube. This tube is especially small in babies making them susceptible to ear infections when they have a cold, as that can spread up the tube and infect the middle ear.
- Outer ear infection: Also known as Otitis Externa, is an infection that is caused in the ear canal or outer ear due to excess moisture in the ear canal post activities like bath or swimming (it is also known as swimmers’ ear), and damage caused to the ear canal due to the usage of cotton buds or inserting other foreign objects.
Symptoms Of Ear Infections
Infants may not be able to communicate their discomfort verbally, so it is essential for parents and caregivers to be attentive to changes in behaviour and signs of potential ear infections. It’s essential to see your doctor if you notice signs of an ear infection. While many ear infections clear up quickly, prompt attention and treatment can prevent further complications. Some common symptoms of ear infections in babies and children include:
- Ear Pulling or Grabbing: Babies might pull or rub their ears due to pain or discomfort.
- Irritability and Crying: Increased fussiness and crying, especially during feeding or when lying down, can be a sign of ear pain.
- Difficulty Sleeping
- Feeding Difficulties: Babies with ear infections may have difficulty sucking or swallowing while feeding, as the motion can cause pain in the ears.
- Changes in Appetite: A decrease in appetite or refusal to eat might be observed.
- Fever: Many babies with ear infections develop a fever. It is essential to monitor your baby’s temperature.
- Fluid Drainage: In some cases, there may be drainage of fluid or pus from the ear. This could indicate a ruptured eardrum.
- Changes in Balance: Ear infections can affect the vestibular system, leading to balance issues. You might notice clumsiness or unsteadiness.
- Difficulty Hearing: Babies may seem less responsive to sounds they are habituated to otherwise or have difficulty hearing. Older toddlers and children may described “muffled heading”.
When Should I Consult A Doctor?
If you feel your child is suffering from any of the above symptoms, it is important to speak to a general practitioner right away to ensure the infection does not lead to complications such as a ruptured eardrum, hearing issues, or a glue ear. Most ear infections usually resolve soon by themselves with simple pain relief to ease the baby’s distress and without needing antibiotics. If the condition doesn’t resolve within 1-2 days, consult your GP who will be able to diagnose and initiate treatment with antibiotics if necessary, and will be able to provide a referral to a specialist for further investigation if the condition is severe.
If the infection occurs at night, after hours or on weekends, and in-person care is not available with a doctor, you can consult a GP online and get a script to ensure effective treatment is given immediately. People in rural/remote areas, parents who cannot travel long distances carrying a child, or wait long hours to see a GP can also use the online doctor service to find a treatment immediately.
What Can I Do To Prevent Or Reduce The Occurrence Of Ear Infection In Children?
While it may not be possible to prevent all ear infections in babies, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk. Here are some preventive measures:
- Good hygiene and a clean environment can reduce the chance of catching a cold which will further lead to a middle ear infection.
- Avoiding Second-hand Smoke: Keep the baby away from smoke, as exposure to tobacco smoke can increase the risk of ear infections.
- Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular well-baby check-ups with your paediatrician. Regular monitoring can help catch any potential issues early and ensure that your baby’s overall health is being properly managed.
- Vaccinations: Childhood vaccinations (such as Pneumococcal vaccine) can reduce some types of ear infections
- Breastfeeding: Can offer some protection from ear infections in the first 6 months of life due to antibodies in the breast milk
Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help manage the symptoms and prevent complications related to ear infections. It is always better to consult a General Practitioner rather than trying to self-diagnose or self-treat your baby’s condition. Your doctor can assess the situation, provide an accurate diagnosis, and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Reference
- Ear Infection – Health Direct: Reference Link
- Middle ear infection – Raising Children website: Reference Link
- Australian commission on safety and quality in health care: Reference Link
- Agency for clinical innovation – Ear infection: Reference Link
- The royal children’s hospital Melbourne – Ear infection: Reference Link
- Better health – ear infection: Reference Link
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Disclaimer
This content is created for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. For emergencies please immediately contact 000.
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