Pediatricians (833) KIDS-DOC

Earaches

Earache can mean many things, from a mosquito bite to infection from dangerous bacteria, so we should always be aware of our child’s body language.

Children usually don’t express themselves much when they suffer from ear pain since it doesn’t bother them as it usually does us, adults; that’s why sometimes it is difficult to detect when they have ear pain.

How Do I Know If My Child Has An Earache?

 

As a parent we must always be watchful of possible signs of pain, children for example, when suffering from ear pain from an infection, tend not to hear or avoid touching that area of the head.

You should also check your child every day, at bath time, or daily cleaning; this not only allows you to detect any disorders in your child’s body but also gives you security as a parent because it lets you be aware of your child’s health..

My Child’s Ear Is Red And Swollen. What Should I Do?

 

If you notice that your child’s ear is red and hurts when touched, he or she may have an infection. You should contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Are There Different Types Of Earaches?

 

No, but the causes of ear pain can be different. The most common cause in children is otitis.

An ear infection can be defined in two ways: otitis externa and otitis media. Otitis externa usually involves the eardrum or tympanic membrane outward, while otitis media involves the tympanic membrane inward; that is, one is an outer ear infection, and the other is a middle ear infection.

When children suffer from a lot of mucus or colds, otitis media is likely the cause. This is because the movements of mucus from the nose or throat to the middle ear, as all these things are communicated through the Eustachian tube.

There are also other known causes of ear pain, such as a ruptured ossicle or ear canal due to handling, a build-up of earwax that creates a plug, an abscess, or referred pain from nearby, such as pain from tonsillitis that is felt in the ear.

How Do You Get Rid Of an Earache Fast?

 

First, it is vital to see a specialist to detect the precise cause of the pain. We can mask the clinical debut if we treat it before detecting the cause.

After the cause of the pain is clear, the treatment proceeds. Since acute otitis is the most frequent cause, in most cases, it is necessary to start taking antibiotics and analgesics to relieve the pain.

Finally, experts also take into account whether it’s the first time with ear pain, the intensity of the ache or swelling, and if it involves both ears.

It is also essential for the child’s age, if symptoms appear quickly or he or she has months with the infection, and if the hearing is affected. All this helps to choose the right treatment for each case.