While it is true that children suffer from ear infections more often than adults, it is important to first define what an ear infection is and understand its causes before providing advice on how to prevent ear infections in children.
IN SHORT
Your child has acute otitis media. Ear inflammation can be viral or bacterial. Since young children are unable to clear their nasal secretions, they are more prone to ear infections. Earache, ringing in the ears, hearing loss, and fever are the main symptoms. Daily nasal hygiene can be a good way to prevent ear infections in children.
What Is Otitis?
Since the word ends in “itis,” we are dealing with inflammation. Generally speaking, otitis can develop in different parts of the ear. The literature often identifies otitis externa, otitis media, and otitis interna[1].
The ear inflammation we are discussing in this article is acute otitis media, as it is a bacterial or viral infection that is very common in children.
If there is no fluid in the “tympanic cavity,” it is referred to as congestive otitis. If there is fluid present, it is referred to as acute otitis media (AOM).
Acute otitis media, whether viral or bacterial, is characterized by ear pain and fever. We will come back to this later.
[1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0399077X97802041; https://www.sfpediatrie.com/sites/www.sfpediatrie.com/files/documents/BrochureFocus/focus_otite.pdf
Why Does My Child Get Ear Infections More Often?
While various factors are involved, it is essential to note that toddlers and children are more susceptible to ear infections because they often struggle to blow their noses properly, which can hinder the clearance of secretions.
Additionally, their Eustachian tube differs from that of an adult. But what is the Eustachian tube? Simply put, it is a tube connecting the middle ear to the nose and throat area. Its main function is to ensure proper ventilation in the child’s ear.
Beyond these few anatomical concepts, it should be noted that in children, the “Eustachian tube is shorter, narrower, and more horizontal”[2] than in adults. Due to its configuration, nasal secretions can more easily enter the middle ear and cause otitis.
Finally, it is important to note that acute viral otitis media affects children who attend daycare more often, as they are more susceptible to contagion.
In short, ear infections in children are more often viral or bacterial.
[2] https://www.researchgate.net/publication/271619047_La_trompe_d’Eustache_physiologie_physiopathologie_et_role_dans_la_genese_de_l’otite_moyenne
How to Recognize the Symptoms in My Child?
As mentioned, your child will experience ear pain. They will tend to rub their ear, and this pain may be accompanied by a fever above 38°C.
This ear pain can vary in intensity, but it can also be severe. Middle ear infection can also be accompanied by a fluid buildup. It is important to monitor whether there is fluid discharge from the ear.
Your child will have difficulty sleeping due to pain and may experience ringing in the ears and hearing loss.
The ENT specialist will make an accurate diagnosis and treat your child appropriately. A child with these symptoms needs to see a doctor.
Can Ear Infections in Children Be Prevented?
Previously, we mentioned that nasal secretions play a role in the onset of ear infections in children.
With this in mind, preventing nasal congestion is key to preventing this condition. Cleaning your child’s nose with a saline solution will ensure good nasal hygiene.
As we have seen, the nose and ear are connected by the Eustachian tube, which, due to its structure, allows nasal secretions to accumulate and cause otitis. When there is nasal congestion, “the ear is often poorly ventilated,”[3] which increases the risk of otitis.
Let’s be practical! Your child’s nasal hygiene can be done on a daily basis until they are able to blow their nose by themselves.
[3] Ibid.
The Clinique ORL 1851: Professionals Who Advise You!
If your child exhibits symptoms of acute otitis media, a consultation at our clinic will ensure they receive prompt treatment.
Our ENT medical professionals are experts in their field and are attentive to families’ needs. Do you have any questions? We have answers for you.
At Clinique ORL 1851 in the heart of Montreal, we take the time to listen to you and treat your child with the utmost professionalism. Contact us for prompt care.
