Most parents will face an ear infection in a sick child at some point. Dr. Errol Keith Douglas, the main pediatrician at Gold Pediatrics, has been treating ear infections in Rockville, MD, for years. As your trusted and caring doctor, we want parents to understand how to prevent these ailments in children and the risks of not taking them seriously.

Who Is At Risk for Infection?

It's important to keep your child’s ears clean and dry. Swimming and failing to dry the ears properly after bathing are common causes of ear infections. Viruses and bacteria can quickly multiply in a moist environment. Middle ear infections are also linked to allergies, such as sinus problems. When the sinus canals become inflamed or congested, they can cause swelling in the eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the throat. Getting allergy testing and proper medication can help reduce those flare-ups.

Practice good hygiene with frequent hand-washing to prevent the spread of germs into the ear canal. Exposure to pollution and smoke also increases the risk. Breastfeeding has been linked to an overall reduction in infections in children. Upright bottle feeding can also help when breastfeeding isn’t possible. Immunizations play a crucial role in protecting your child’s immune system from viral invasions, so ensure your child has all the necessary shots.

What Are the Symptoms?

Your child will likely complain of ear pain, which often worsens when lying down or trying to sleep. They may cry more than usual, and you may notice discharge if the ear becomes more infected. Some ear infections may also be accompanied by fever and loss of appetite. Additionally, your child may experience muffled hearing.

What Are the Consequences of Not Getting Medical Treatment?

Safety can become an issue as your ears are linked to your balance. This means your child may become prone to injury from falls due to vertigo. Permanent hearing loss can occur, especially if infections are frequent and persist for a long time. One particularly dangerous complication is cellulitis, a bacterial infection in the ear lobe. If hearing loss occurs early, it can lead to developmental delays, particularly with speech, as children initially form their speech based on what they hear around them.

Contact Gold Pediatrics Rockville, MD

Ear infections in may be common in children, but it’s important to practice due diligence in prevention and seek proper medical treatment when needed. If your child has lingering or frequent infections, it’s time for a consultation with Dr. Douglas at Gold Pediatrics. We can suggest lifestyle modifications, prescribe antibiotics, and provide the necessary care for your child. Call us today at 301-517-9710 to learn more.