Find out the common signs that your little one could be battling an ear infection.
Nothing is worse then when your child is sick. Of course, if your child is so young that they aren’t able to talk yet, it can be nearly impossible for your child to be able to communicate what they are experiencing. Even children can find it difficult to express certain problems they may be having. Of course, our Orlando, FL pediatricians are here to provide a list of signs that could be warning you that your child might have an ear infection.
While any child can develop an ear infection, unfortunately children under 3 years old are often more at risk for developing this problem. Why? Because their immune systems aren’t quite strong enough to battle the different kinds of bacteria. If your child complains of an earache this is often a very good indicator that something is wrong. Other symptoms include:
- Draining of the ear
- Difficulty hearing or muffled hearing
- Problems sleeping
- Tugging at the ear
- Fussy or irritability
- Crying or clingy
- Lack of appetite
- Diarrhea
If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms or comes down with a fever, it’s time to visit your Orlando, FL children’s doctor for care. If your baby is under 6 months old and has an ear infection, antibiotics will be necessary so come into our office right away for care.
In some situations, our doctor may recommend waiting it out before deciding whether antibiotics are appropriate or necessary. If there is no improvement in symptoms then antibiotics may be prescribed.
If you are looking for ways to prevent ear infections in your little one, here are some handy tips:
- If your child has allergies make sure they are being properly managed to prevent mucus from building up in the Eustachian tubes of the ears.
- Quit smoking, as secondhand smoke can also increase your child’s chances of developing an ear infection.
- Vaccinate your child. These vaccines will lessen your child’s risk of ear infections.
- Make sure your child washes their hands often to prevent the common cold.
If you are concerned that your child may have an ear infection don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician. We can determine whether or not your little one needs to come in for care.
