Ear infections are common in adults, but even more common in children. These infections occur in the middle ear portion of the ear. This is the spot behind the eardrums that is filled with air that receives the vibrations from the eardrum itself.
There is some good news when it comes to ear infections though. In most cases, they are relatively minor. Many are caused by other conditions and will clear up in a few days. Most of the time, treatment doesn’t need to be too severe and can just be a case of dealing with the pain and keeping an eye on it. If you’re looking to learn more about ear infections, then take this opportunity to get information about some of the symptoms, causes and basic treatment ideas that come with an ear infection.
Causes of Ear Infections
Ear infections are caused when a virus or bacteria gets into the ear. In most cases it’s from other conditions. Allergies and the flu can commonly cause ear infections. So can the common cold. Essentially, any illness that affects the eustachian tubes, nasal passages or throat can cause an ear infection.
There’s plenty of risk factors for ear infection. Younger children are susceptible as their immune systems are still forming. When kids are in child care, they are exposed to other children more, which can be a vector for simple transmission of diseases. Children drinking from bottles can increase the chance of ear infection.
Aside from risks to children, poor air quality is often an issue. Being exposed to smoke or air with high levels of dangerous pollution can cause issues. Other seasonal factors can play a role as well. High pollen counts during allergy season can be a real problem.
Symptoms of Ear Infections
When it comes to adults, symptoms are easy to spot. People will feel pain in their ear, often while swallowing. They may have some minor incidents with hearing and fluid in the ear could drain from it. If symptoms become an issue, then see a doctor.
Issues with ear infections are more of a problem with children. Kids often struggle to articulate their symptoms properly. Parents need to look after their children and try to spot the signs that they are suffering from an ear infection. Symptoms to look out for with children include:
- Crying an unusual amount
- Pulling or touching their ear repeatedly
- An inability to sleep at night
- Not responding to sounds in their normal fashion
- Suffering from pain while laying down
- Having a fairly high fever over 100 degrees
- Balance issues
- Suffering from a loss of appetite
- Acting in a fussy manner
Treatment of Ear Infections
In most cases, the first step for an ear infection is usually to see how it develops. Most ear infections clean themselves up on their own schedule. Symptoms tend to get weaker in a few days, then are completely gone in a week or two.
Ear infections can be very painful. This is usually countered by simple painkillers. These are available over the counter and are mild or moderate in severity. With children, it’s important to be careful about what is given. Always read every box and speak with your doctor before giving them over the counter painkillers.
In some cases, doctors may choose a series of antibiotics to help children or adults who are suffering from severe ear infections. This may be with the intention of stopping the underlying cause, or the infection themselves.