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Ear-itation No More! A Parent’s Guide for Winter Ear Infections
Ear-itation No More! A Parent’s Guide for Winter Ear Infections
When we think about ear infections in children, many of us picture sunny days and swimming pools. Swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa, is often top of mind during the summer months. But did you know that wintertime brings its own surge in ear infections? With a rise in respiratory illnesses like colds and flu, middle ear infections, or otitis media, become increasingly common during the colder months.
Let’s break down the 2 most common types of ear infections in children, what to watch for, and how to help your child get the care they need.
The Two Most Common Types of Ear Infections in Children: What’s the Difference?
Swimmer’s Ear (Otitis Externa)
- What it is: An infection of the ear canal (outside of the eardrum), often caused by trapped water that creates a breeding ground for bacteria.
- When it happens: Most commonly in warm, humid conditions, like after swimming in pools, lakes, or oceans.
- Symptoms to watch for: Ear pain, itching, redness, and drainage from the ear canal.
Middle Ear Infections (Otitis Media)
- What it is: An infection behind the eardrum, often triggered by a buildup of fluid due to colds, allergies, or other upper respiratory infections.
- When it happens: Frequently in the winter months when colds and flu are widespread.
- Symptoms to watch for: Ear pain, trouble hearing, fever, irritability, and sometimes fluid drainage if the eardrum has ruptured.
Why Do Middle Ear Infections Spike in the Winter?
Winter brings a wave of colds, flu, and other respiratory viruses. When your child catches a cold, the congestion and inflammation can affect their eustachian tubes—the small passages that connect the middle ear to the nose and back of the throat. These tubes can become blocked from congestion, trapping fluid in the middle ear. Bacteria or viruses can then grow in the trapped fluid, leading to infection.
Ever wonder why kids are so prone to ear infections in the first place? There’s a simple explanation. Children’s eustachian tubes are shorter, narrower, and more horizontal than those of adults, making them more likely to become blocked. Children also tend to get viral illnesses more frequently, leading to congestion – the perfect foundation for middle ear infections.
Signs and Symptoms of Middle Ear Infections
Keep an eye out for these common signs of a middle ear infection in your child:
- Ear pain or tugging at the ears: Younger children may not be able to articulate their discomfort and might pull on their ears.
- Fever: A temperature over 100.4°F may accompany the infection.
- Irritability or fussiness: Pain and pressure in the ear can make your child cranky.
- Trouble hearing: Fluid buildup can temporarily reduce hearing.
- Trouble sleeping: Lying down can increase pressure in the ear, making it hard to rest.
- Drainage from the ear: Yellow or white fluid might appear if the eardrum ruptures. While this can be alarming, it often relieves pressure and reduces pain.
It’s important to note that ear infections can progress quickly. Symptoms may change rapidly, and children may not have an ear infection one day, then it is infected the next. This is why seeking professional care is essential if you suspect an ear infection. Also, be prepared that sometimes ear tugging/pain is not a sign of an infection and can be caused by congestion and pressure in the ear from fluid. Your provider can help tell the difference with a thorough ear exam.
What Should You Do If You Suspect an Ear Infection?
If you think your child has an ear infection, here are a few steps you can take:
- Manage pain and fever at home:
- Use over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve discomfort.
- A warm compress over the ear can provide soothing relief.
- Encourage hydration: Swallowing helps open the eustachian tubes, so offer plenty of fluids.
- Watch for concerning symptoms:
- Persistent fever, severe pain, or symptoms lasting more than 48 hours usually warrant medical attention. However, anytime you are concerned about your child behaving differently due to symptoms, it may be worth getting checked out by a pediatric professional for peace of mind.
- Any drainage from the ear should also be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
- Visit your local PM Pediatric Urgent Care:
- While some mild ear infections may resolve on their own, many require treatment, especially in younger children. A PM Pediatric Urgent Care provider can examine your child’s ears and determine if antibiotics or other interventions are needed. Prompt treatment can reduce pain and prevent complications like hearing loss or recurrent infections.
Are Antibiotics Always Necessary for Ear Infections?
It’s important to note that not all ear infections require antibiotics. Many middle ear infections, especially those caused by viruses, can resolve on their own without antibiotics. In fact, overuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance and unnecessary side effects. Your PM pediatric provider will assess your child’s condition and determine if antibiotics are appropriate based on factors like age, severity of symptoms, and whether the infection is bacterial.
For mild cases, a “wait-and-see” approach may be recommended, especially if your child is over 2 years old and the symptoms are not severe. However, infants and children with severe symptoms often benefit from antibiotics to prevent complications.
Prevention Tips for Winter Ear Infections
While it’s impossible to avoid every illness, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of ear infections:
- Practice good hand hygiene: Encourage frequent handwashing to minimize the spread of germs.
- Keep up with vaccines: Flu shots and other recommended vaccines can lower the risk of respiratory illnesses that lead to ear infections.
- Manage allergies: If your child has allergies, keeping them under control can reduce inflammation in the nasal passages and eustachian tubes.
- Breastfeed if possible: Breastfeeding has been shown to lower the risk of ear infections in infants.
- Avoid exposure to smoke: Secondhand smoke can increase the likelihood of ear infections.
Final Thoughts
Winter ear infections are a common challenge but knowing what to look for and how to respond can make all the difference. Keep an eye out for signs like ear pain, fever, and irritability, and don’t hesitate to seek care from our PM Pediatric Urgent Care team or your pediatrician if needed. We’re here to provide the support and treatment your child needs to recover quickly and comfortably.