Does your child’s ear hurt? She may have a middle ear infection.
Middle ear infections are a common cause of temporary hearing loss, especially in children. Before settling for a hearing aid, it’s a good idea to take your child to the doctor to find out if the problem is a simple middle ear infection.
Symptoms
A middle ear infection results in fluid buildup and inflammation in the space behind the ear drum. Reduced mobility in the eardrum and middle ear bones results in a temporary reduction of hearing ability. Ear infections often occur in toddlers or infants who cannot yet express the cause of their discomfort. Luckily, there are some tell-tale signs that parents can look for to tell if their child is suffering from an ear infection. If your child displays any of these symptoms, take them to a doctor to be treated for an ear infection:
- Fever
- Scratching or pulling ears
- Diminished response to voices and noises
- Irritability
- Secretions from ears
Older children and adults tend to experience middle ear infections differently. Here are some symptoms to look for:
- Pressure in the ears
- Constant earache
- Difficulty hearing
- Feelings of dizziness or nausea
- Vomiting
Treatment
There are two types of middle ear infections: acute and chronic. An acute infection has a quick onset and will usually not last long. A chronic infection can last for a month or more and his a high chance of reoccuring. Both types of infections can be easily treated with antibiotics. The antibiotics destroy the infections, which then causes the swelling and inflammation to reduce and the fluids from the ear to drain.
Causes
Ear infections are common for children and adults as they grow. As we grow, the position of the Eustachian tube changes, which can sometimes result in an infection. The Eustachian tube is connected from the back of the throat to the middle ear. An infant’s or child’s weaker immune system can lead to infections. A common cause of chronic infection in older children and adults is chronic infection of the tonsils. The tonsils are close to the Eustachian tube, so it’s easy for bacteria and viruses to travel to the middle ear. In this case, it may be a wise decision to have your tonsils removed.
Get In Touch With Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions
Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions is an independently-owned and operated clinic that focuses on quality of care and personalized, friendly service. Our Doctors of Audiology are highly trained with advanced degrees and take the time to provide the personalized care and attention that you need and deserve. We provide advanced hearing aid options that personally calibrated with cutting-edge digital technology to fit your hearing loss, your unique ear anatomy, and your individual listening needs. Come in for a walk-in appointment on Tuesdays & Fridays from 10:00am to 11:30am, or contact us to schedule an appointment by calling 410-698-6594 or visiting our contact page. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, and LinkedIn for more blog posts, news, and updates!