Our doctors sat down to answer some of the most commonly asked questions from parents about ear infections.

Can an ear infection be diagnosed over the phone, or do I have to bring my child in for an office visit?

An ear infection cannot be diagnosed over the phone.  A physical examination of the ear must be performed using an instrument called a Pneumatic Otoscope.  This allows the doctor to get a good look at the inside of the ear and the eardrum to see if any visible signs of infection are found such as redness, swelling, or fluid.  After the examination an accurate diagnosis can be made.

Why do more children get ear infections than adults?

It’s true that infants and young children are the most susceptible to ear infections.  This is due to the anatomy of the ear and also the immune system. The eustachian tubes in children are smaller and level, allowing germs to easily reach the middle ear.  The size and shape also make it difficult for the release of fluid, which creates a breeding ground for germs.  Unlike adults, children’s immune systems are not fully developed making it harder for them to fight off infections. 

What are some signs that my child may have an ear infection?

Ear infection symptoms can range from mild to severe.  On the mild end of the spectrum, your child may have an elevated temperature, a dull aching pain in their ear, or feel tired and lethargic.  More severe symptoms are pulling on their ear, having a hard time hearing, off balance, and fluid leaking from the ears.  It is important to note, that any of these symptoms should be discussed with your doctor if they are generally uncharacteristic of your child.

How can ear infections be prevented?

There is no way to prevent ear infections, but there are ways to reduce your child’s risk.  Make sure your child is current with all of their vaccinations and make sure they get a flu shot.  Teach children about hygiene and the importance of washing their hands to prevent the spread of germs.  Mothers if possible, breastfeed your babies.  Breastfed babies are associated with lower incidences of bacterial and viral infections.  Lastly, avoid smoke exposure.  Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke compromises children’s immune systems.

 Are antibiotics the best option for treatment?

It mainly depends on the type and severity of the ear infection and the child’s medical history.  To counter antibiotic resistance, doctors today tend to follow patients for a few days to see if their immune systems are able to fight off the infection.  Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are used to manage pain within the first few days.  However, if the child has a high fever, worsening symptoms, and a recurrent history of infections antibiotic therapy will be used.

Follow our blog for more articles!

Visit our Parent Resources for more information about some common issues!