Ear infections are one of the most common reasons children visit their pediatrician for health problems. Many parents constantly worry about it. What causes this condition? How do parents know their child has one?

An ear infection is basically an inflammation of the middle portion, the part responsible for transmitting sounds from the eardrum to the inner ear. With the help of the Eustachian tubes, the midsection secretes a fluid that drains toward the back of the throat. If this fluid does not drain, it collects in the middle ear and serves as a breeding ground for bacteria. This eventually causes an infection.

What are the common symptoms of an ear infection?

Many times, it can be difficult for parents to identify the symptoms. It often starts with a cold or the flu. A child may experience a runny nose or cough, followed by a fever. This makes the boy cranky as she constantly touches his ear in an attempt to ease the discomfort.

The child will also experience:

• vomiting
• An unpleasant odor coming from your child’s ear
• No appetite
• Inability to hear
• Sleeping problems
• A whitish/yellowish liquid

Why are children more affected by ear infections?

immature immune system: A child’s immune system is not as developed as an adult’s. This makes it harder for children to fight off harmful viruses, bacteria, and infections.

smaller eustachian tubes: Children’s Eustachian tubes are smaller and flatter. It becomes difficult for fluids to flow out of the ear, even when they are working normally. When the tubes are blocked or swollen with mucus, it becomes even more difficult for the fluid to drain completely.

Entrapment of bacteria in the adenoids: Adenoids help fight infection by trapping bacteria that enter through the mouth. When bacteria get trapped in the adenoids, it causes an infection that spreads to the middle ear.

Treatment of infections

Most of the time, the pain goes away within 24 hours, so it’s good to wait a day. If the symptoms persist, it is time to contact the pediatrician. Some doctors prescribe an antibiotic to treat the infection. If the infection is mild, pain relievers or drops also help relieve pain. Make sure your child takes the antibiotics as prescribed, and after that, come back for a follow-up visit to check if the infection has cleared up.