Middle Ear Infections in Children

Do you have a child who suffers from recurrent ear infections? Are you tired of taking time off work to take them to the doctor or urgent care? We’ll discuss the causes and treatments of ear infections, as well as effective tips for prevention. Check it out to learn more and finally get some relief for your little one!

What are Middle Ear Infections?

Infections in the middle ear, also known as acute otitis media, are one of the most common childhood illnesses. Ear infections occur when fluid builds up in the middle ear, the air-filled space behind the eardrum. This fluid can become infected by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The infection can cause pain and swelling in the ear. While ear infections are most common in children, adults can also be affected.

Symptoms of an Ear Infection

An ear infection can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on the type and severity of the infection. Common symptoms include pain in the ear, fever, fluid drainage from the ear, reduced hearing, and pressure or fullness in the ear. If a bacterial infection is present, it can also cause redness and swelling of the ear canal. In some cases, ear infections can cause vertigo or vomiting. Some kids may appear uncharacteristically unsteady. 

Causes of an Ear Infection

Ear infections can be caused by a variety of factors, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and allergies. Bacterial infections are the most common type of ear infection and are typically caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or Moraxella catarrhalis. Viral infections can also cause ear infections, and they are usually caused by the same viruses that cause colds and the flu. Fungal infections are less common, but they can still occur in some cases. Allergies can also lead to ear infections by causing inflammation in the ear canal. While ear infections can occur at any age, they are most common in young children due to their smaller Eustachian tubes that can easily become blocked.

Diagnosing a Middle Ear Infection

It is important to diagnose an ear infection quickly, as it can lead to serious complications and long-term hearing loss if left untreated. Your doctor will likely examine your ears with a lighted instrument called an otoscope, which allows them to see the eardrum. A test called tympanometry can be used to measure the movement of the eardrum, which can indicate fluid buildup. If your doctor suspects that you have a chronic or recurrent ear infection, they may refer you to an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT) for further testing and treatment.

Treating a Middle Ear Infection

Depending on the severity of the infection, treatment may include home remedies, antibiotics, or in some cases, surgery.



Home remedies for ear infections include applying a warm compress to the affected ear and taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. For more severe cases, antibiotics may be prescribed by a doctor. These antibiotics may be taken orally or applied topically to the affected area. Ear tubes may be necessary to drain fluid from the middle ear. Other surgeries, such as a mastoidectomy or eardrum repair, are occasionally needed for severe ear infections.

Home Remedies for an Ear Infection

Home remedies for an ear infection can be a great way to reduce pain and discomfort associated with the infection, as well as speed up the healing process. Some common home remedies include:



• Applying a warm compress to the affected ear. The heat helps reduce inflammation and pain.
• Taking over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, to reduce pain and discomfort.
  

When to See an ENT Doctor for Ear Infections

If your child experiences frequent or chronic ear infections, it is recommended that you see an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor. An ENT doctor is a specialist who specializes in diagnosing and treating ear infections and other issues related to the ears, nose, and throat. They are best equipped to determine the cause of the infection and provide the most effective treatment plan.

Complications of Chronic or Recurring Ear Infections

Ear infections can be incredibly painful, uncomfortable, and even dangerous if left untreated. While most ear infections can be treated with antibiotics or other medications, some ear infections can become chronic or recurring, leading to further complications. When a person has chronic or recurring ear infections, the fluid that builds up behind the eardrum can cause hearing loss, balance problems, and even damage to the eardrum itself. Additionally, chronic ear infections can lead to infection of other parts of the ear, such as the mastoid bone or the inner ear, which can result in further hearing loss or ringing in the ears (tinnitus).

Prevention Tips for Avoiding Future Ear infections

Ear infections can be prevented by taking a few simple steps.

First, it is important to practice good hygiene. Washing hands regularly, avoiding contact with people who are ill, and not sharing drinks or food can help reduce the chances of getting an ear infection.

Second, keep the ears clean. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or wax buildup in the outer ear. Do not put anything inside the ear canal, as this can cause an infection.

Third, reduce the risk of allergies and respiratory infections. Keep the indoor air clean by avoiding smoking and using air filters. If allergies are present, take steps to reduce exposure to allergens such as pet dander and pollen. Keeping up with vaccinations is also important for prevention of illnesses that could lead to ear infections.



Finally, for children who are prone to frequent ear infections, consult with a doctor about preventive treatments that may be available.

Children and Infants with Ear Infections

Ear infections in children and infants can be especially tricky. Young children and infants may not be able to express the pain and discomfort they are feeling, making it difficult for parents to diagnose an ear infection. Symptoms of an ear infection in children may include tugging at the ear, irritability, difficulty sleeping, fever, vomiting and diarrhea. If your child is displaying any of these symptoms, it is important to take them to a doctor as soon as possible. Infants may also show signs of an ear infection such as fussiness, trouble sleeping and decreased appetite.



It is important to take your child or infant to a doctor if you suspect they have an ear infection. The doctor can diagnose the condition by looking in the ear with a special instrument called an otoscope. They may also take a swab from the affected area in order to test for bacteria or viruses. Treatment for an ear infection in children and infants typically includes antibiotics or other medications prescribed by the doctor. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat severe cases of chronic or recurrent ear infections.

Surgery as a Treatment Option

Surgery may be an option for some cases of chronic or severe ear infections. Surgery may be required to treat the infection, and to repair any damage to the eardrum. The most common type of surgery for an ear infection is tympanostomy, which is a procedure to drain fluid from the middle ear and place ear tubes in the eardrum. Tympanostomy tubes may be used to keep the middle ear open and allow medications to reach the infection site. In some cases, surgery may be needed to repair or rebuild the structures of the middle ear or inner ear, such as the ossicles (the three tiny bones of the middle ear) or the cochlea (the organ of hearing). Surgery can also be used to remove tumors or growths in the ear. In rare cases, a mastoidectomy may be necessary to remove a very large or deep infection in the mastoid bone behind the ear. If a child has recurrent ear infections, an adenoidectomy may be recommended to remove enlarged adenoids (tissue near the tonsils) that are blocking the Eustachian tube and leading to fluid buildup in the middle ear. Lastly, as previously mentioned, Eustachian tube dilation may be an option.

Conclusion

Ear infections can be a painful and uncomfortable experience, but they are also very common. Fortunately, most ear infections can be treated with antibiotics or other medications, and home remedies can help to reduce pain and swelling. To prevent future ear infections, it is important to practice good hygiene, take steps to avoid allergies, and get regular check-ups with your child’s pediatrician. For chronic or recurring ear infections, pediatric ENT specialists can help discuss treatment options, such as tympanostomy tubes (ear tubes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Ear infections are a common occurrence, particularly among children. Here are some frequently asked questions about ear infections.

Medical Reviewers

ENT Care Centers | ENT Health Library

Last Review Date: June 2023

Content Reviewers:

• Dr. Jeffrey Nau, MD
• Dr. Joseph J. Creely, MD
• Dr. Bryan Murphy, MD
• Dr. Thomas Higgins, MD, MSPH