Middle Ear Infections (also known as Tubes) are very common in children and adolescents. They are more common in boys than girls and tend to occur before the age of five. Ear pain is often the first sign of an ear infection. Children frequently may have: difficulty eating, drinking, sleeping, or even playing. In older children, ear pain may occur with irritable bowel syndrome, ear infections caused by streptococcus, or ear infections related to ear wax buildup.
Middle ear infections that do not go away should be evaluated by a physician. They should be treated to avoid permanent damage to the hearing center. Parents should be wary of home remedies that claim to go away sinus infections or earaches “in the twinkle of an eye.” Those treatments often do not work properly. There is no such thing as “natural” or “over-the-counter” medications that will treat middle ear infections because they are indeed infections.
Treatments for middle ear infections should include warm, soothing baths, ibuprofen or acetaminophen pain medicine, and possibly ear drops. These should be taken several times a day for relief of pain and discomfort. If pain persists, ear drops may be prescribed. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen are commonly available over the counter, without a prescription. Middle ear drops can provide instant relief from pain, but they can be dangerous if taken for an extended period of time because they contain drugs and other medications that can irritate the outer ear and cause an inner ear abscess.
Over-the-counter medications for ear infections can also relieve pressure in the middle ear due to excess fluid in the ear canal. When fluid builds up in this area, it presses on the eardrum and causes hearing problems. Middle ear infections that are not properly treated can lead to hearing problems. Therefore, if your child is suffering from middle ear infections, you should consult a doctor to ensure proper treatment is done.
One of the most common treatments for middle ear infections is called otitis media. It involves taking anti-inflammatory medication and using a humidifier in the child’s room at all times. The name otitis media comes from the Latin word for mouth (oveilleus). This type of infection is very common, especially in young children. Otitis media usually clears up within a week or two.
To prevent ear infections, parents should keep their children’s teeth clean by flossing and brushing. They should also be taught good dental hygiene practices such as regular, professional dental checkups and examinations. Parents should also educate themselves about certain risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing middle ear infections, such as weak immune system, diabetes, meningitis, etc. These factors can weaken the protective cilia, which are small hairs that line the inside of the inner ear.
There are some things parents can do to help reduce the risk of their children developing middle ear infections. To reduce the risk of bacterial infection, they should keep the child’s mouth moist with water whenever possible. If the child has diabetes, they should have regular dental checkups. Parents should also refrain from smoking. Smoking can irritate the mucous membranes in the ears making them more susceptible to infection. Smokers also have a higher chance of developing sinusitis, which can also lead to middle ear infections.
If you follow the right, acute otitis media, homeopathic remedies, and proper dental care then middle ear infections can be managed effectively and safely. In most cases, the infection will go away within a few weeks. The long term treatment is not recommended as the infection might reoccur later in life. If you are experiencing any symptoms, it is best to visit your family physician for a proper diagnosis. By following the appropriate homeopathic remedies along with your regular doctor visits, you can successfully recover from your illness.