What Are Ear Infections?
Ear infections in infants and children are extremely common and easily treatable. Ear infections are typically caused by bacteria and a build-up of fluid, presenting itself as inflammation and other unpleasant symptoms.
Children are most prone to them, and especially chronic pediatric ear infections, so you need to be equipped when it comes to treating them.
What Are Common Symptoms of Ear Infections?
Your child may be experiencing symptoms such as pain, fever, excess fluid draining from the ear, fussiness, difficulty sleeping, tugging / pulling at the ears, and / or difficulty hearing. All of these symptoms are easily treated.
How Are Ear Infections Diagnosed?
Your child’s care ears, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or primary care provider will ask questions about their health, especially about recent changes, and check their eardrums with instruments known as an otoscope, a lighted device, or pneumatic otoscope, which blows a puff of air.
Then, they determine a diagnosis based on the results of the physical exam and symptoms.
However, if diagnosis still isn’t clear, your doctor will use a test known as a tympanometry, which utilizes air pressure and sound tones.
How Are Ear Infections Treated?
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, help to manage inflammation, fever, and discomfort. For acute middle ear infections or persistent infection, your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic.
Earaches and infections are known to clear up on their own, so discuss with your provider what you can do to prevent them and lessen your child’s discomfort.
Where Can I Get Treatment for Ear Infections in McLean?
Seeking treatment and advice for your child’s ear infections? Turn to ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery!
Contact us today at 703-448-0005. We specialize in everything ears, nose, and throat to help you and your child feel healthier and at ease!
