Ear infections in babies

Ear infections in babies are usually caused by an accumulation or build up of bacteria and fluid around the eardrum. Normally, the fluid quickly leaves through the Eustachian tube or the tube that connects the middle ear portion to the back of the throat and nose as the individual swallows or yawns. However, when there is a blockage in the Eustachian tube, which is the case if you have a sinus infection, a cold or an allergy, the fluid is trapped inside the middle ear. Because of that, bacteria grows, infecting the ear and as the infection gets worse, the swelling inside and around the eardrum also worsens, causing pain to the individual. The body would then make an effort to fight off the infection, causing a fever to develop. Ear infections are a lot more common in babies than in adults for the reason that the Eustachian tubes of babies are shorter, making them more prone to developing infections.

The unfortunate thing is that babies are not able to say once they feel any pain ?they would simply cry. And so, make sure that you are sensitive to the cries of your baby. More frequent and longer crying spells would usually be a signal that there is something wrong with him, possibly a signal that he has an ear infection. Some of the other symptoms of ear infection in babies would be irritability, grumpiness, refusing to eat and the most accurate sign – a fever. It would be good to know that ear infections in babies are likely to develop after a bout with a cold. Though ear pulling in babies is usually a common habit which you should not normally be worried about, if you notice that your baby is pulling his ears while crying, it might be good to bring him to the doctor for an evaluation. Some other signs which could be indicators of ear infection in babies would include diarrhea, white or yellowing fluid coming out of the ear and a foul smell which is coming from the ear. If you notice any of these in your baby, it would be best to see his doctor so that he can be diagnosed and if he does have an ear infection, receive the proper course of treatment.

Although there have been recent studies conducted that most of the ear infections that babies experience would clear up without any form of treatment, it would still be best to have his doctor evaluate his condition. In most cases, his pediatrician would prescribe an antibiotic as well as suggest the administration of ibuprofen or acetaminophen to serve as a pain reliever. Once your baby has been prescribed with antibiotics, make sure that you are able to give him the complete course. Also make sure that you would be bringing him back to the doctor after a week or two. However, if you feel that the treatment or the antibiotics that were prescribed are not making your baby better or are not able to improve hic condition in any way, you need to call your doctor.

Although the incidence of ear infections in babies is generally rare, there are some cases which could be dangerous. If the ear infection is severe and if it is left untreated, your baby’s ear drum could be ruptured. If this happens, you should not be too worried as it could heal but it would be crucial to have your doctor check your baby to evaluate if the infection is gone and that the eardrum is properly healing. Keep in mind that if your baby experiences ear infections every now and then, these infections could cause permanent damage on his hearing. There are even some untreated infections which lead to meningitis or infections of the skull which is located behind the ear.

Prevention of ear infection in babies could be difficult, especially if your baby is usually in contact with other people. You could, however, make sure that your baby receives all the vaccinations or immunizations he needs. You could also ensure that your baby has been breastfed for six months at least, as breastfeeding has been proven to lower the risk of ear infections significantly.

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July 13, 2008 | Filed Under Baby health