Has your child been fussy lately and you aren’t sure why? It could be because of an ear infection, as ear infections are one of the leading reasons children between the ages of 2 and 4 visit the doctor in the United States.

Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Powdersville shares some helpful info on ear infections among children.

What Is an Ear Infection?

An ear infection is medically known as acute otitis media, or a sudden infection in the middle ear, which is the space behind the eardrum.

An antibiotic is usually needed to successfully treat ear infections to avoid future health complications, like hearing loss or a ruptured ear drum. We’ve listed some common symptoms of ear infections among children below.

Common Symptoms of Ear Infections Among Children

• Ear pain, especially when lying down
• Tugging or pulling at an ear
• Trouble sleeping
• Crying more than usual
• Fussiness
• Trouble hearing or responding to sounds
• Loss of balance
• Fever of 100 F or higher
• Drainage of fluid from the ear
• Headache
• Loss of appetite

What Causes Ear Infections?

Bacteria or viruses are usually the cause, and sometimes a common cold is followed by an ear infection. The infection causes inflammation and swelling of the eustachian tube, which is a narrow tube that runs from the middle ear to high in the back of the throat, behind the nasal passages.

When an infection occurs, the tube narrows and fluid builds behind the eardrum, causing pressure and pain. If your child is experiencing an ear infection, there are things you can do to help reduce the pain he or she is experiencing. We’ve listed some common treatments below!

Common Treatments of Ear Infections

• Doctor-prescribed antibiotics
• Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Over-the-counter or prescription ear drops
• Elevation for your child’s head. Slightly elevating your child’s head will improve sinus drainage.
• Warm compress. Holding a moist compress over your child’s ear for about 10 to 15 minutes can help reduce pain.

If you believe your child has an ear infection, don’t hesitate to visit our team at AFC Urgent Care Powdersville to get the necessary treatment to help your little one feel good as new!