Babies and Ear Problems: Causes, Concerns and Treatments
Ear problems are probably one of the most common health concerns for babies. These problems can range from an earache to an ear infection to more serious complications, such as hearing loss. Most babies will outgrow many of these ear problems, but some will not. Here are some of the most common ear problems, available treatments, and when these problems should be a cause for serious concern.
Otitis Media
This is undoubtedly one of the most common health problems for infants. An inner ear infection, or otitis media, will often cause a baby a lot of pain. This pain is the result of a buildup of fluid in the inner ear. The symptoms often include a running nose, ear redness, and a tendency to pull or tug at the infected ear. It may be difficult to hear out of the ear and the baby may try to turn their head so the ear is against something, as this can help a little with the pain. The child may also run a fever, have a decreased appetite, and have trouble sleeping.
Sometimes, the ear drum may burst when the pressure becomes too great. While this may sound very scary, the ear drum will usually heal on its own. The child will usually feel much better after the pressure is released, but will have difficulty hearing until the ear drum is healed.
The cause of a middle ear infection can often be traced to a recent cold, sinus infection, strep throat, or other bacterial or viral infection. It can spread to the Eustachian tubes in the ears, which in babies are much smaller and straighter than in adults. This means that the tube does not drain as well. Most children will have three ear infections by the time they are three years old.
An ear infection will normally require antibiotics for treatment. There are some natural remedies that may help reduce the pain and pressure, however. Consider a drop or two of onion oil or garlic oil. This is a very old natural remedy that often works very well. Sweet oil also reportedly works quickly. There are also some prescription medications that are specifically designed to ease the pain of an ear infection. Baby middle ear infections should initially be treated by a pediatrician.
Otitis Externa
This is a condition of the outer ear and external ear canal. It’s often referred to as swimmer’s ear, but can occur in babies as well. It is often caused by exposure to water, which allows debris to build up in the ear, as well as bacteria. The symptoms include pain, redness, itching, a foul smelling discharge, and swelling of the outer ear and external ear canal. On most occasions, the condition will require a topical antibiotic. Sometimes, Tylenol or even Codeine may be prescribed to ease the pain.
Clogged Ear or Bleeding Ear
Sometimes a build up of wax can occur in the ear canal, contributing to hearing loss. The doctor will usually use warm water and a syringe to flood out the wax. A bleeding ear can be caused by an inner ear infection, external ear infection, or damage to the eardrum. A bleeding ear should always be checked by a doctor, as it also a sign of head trauma.
Other Treatment Options
There are a few other things that you may do to help ease the discomfort of your baby. A warm, but not hot, moist cloth against the ear can ease the pain of an ear infection. Keep the baby out of the wind or cold, as this can make the pain worse. You should take your baby to the pediatrician if you suspect an ear infection, as it can lead to hearing loss if left untreated.
Prevention
There are several things you can to do help prevent ear problems in babies. First, never smoke around your baby. Babies who are exposed to second hand smoke have a much higher occurrence of ear infections than babies who are not exposed. Don’t let your baby fall asleep with a bottle. This allows the formula or other fluid to flow into the ears, due to the shape and length of the Eustachian tubes.
Breastfed babies also have a lower incidence of ear problems, due to the immunities that are passed on from the mother. You may also want to limit exposure to day care settings and other children if your child is prone to ear infections.
In Closing
Ear problems are very common among babies and young children. Some will have so many ear infections that tubes are placed in the ears to help promote drainage. If your child has the signs of symptoms of an ear infection, you can try some home remedies first. However, if the pain persists, be sure to see your pediatrician.
