Ear Infections - Common But Painful

Most children have at least one middle ear infection while growing up. These infections are common in children younger than 6 years and often accompany colds.

"When a child has a cold, the eustachian tube can become swollen and clogged," says Dr. Ellen Friedman, chief of otolaryngology at Texas Children's Hospital. "As the eustachian tube becomes clogged, germs and fluid can become trapped in the middle ear, which can cause a painful infection."

Only a doctor will be able to determine if your child has an ear infection. Some common symptoms of the infection include: fussiness, irritability and crying more than usual; rubbing, pulling, or scratching the ears; drainage from the ears; ear pain; poor hearing; and fever.

If your child does have an ear infection, the doctor will usually prescribe an antibiotic. It is important that your child takes all the medication as directed, even if he or she feels better before the medicine is finished.

- From Baylor College of Medicine

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Courtesy of Texas Medical Center News

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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URL: http://www.tmc.edu/health_briefs/05_15_99-ear.html