Ear infections are one of the most common childhood illnesses, and one of the most frustrating for parents and kids alike. Frequent ear pain, fluid buildup, or hearing issues can make it difficult for your child to sleep, focus, or communicate comfortably. Understanding the causes and treatments for pediatric ear infections is key to preventing long-term problems and keeping your child healthy.
At Virginia Ear Nose and Throat, our pediatric ENT specialists provide gentle, effective care tailored to your child’s needs, using the latest diagnostic tools and treatments for lasting relief.
What is a Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media)?
Infections of the middle ear are most common in infants and toddlers, with 80% of children having two or more infections by their second birthday. They become less prominent as children age, and most children outgrow infections of this variety by age 3.
An infection of the middle ear (otitis media) occurs behind the eardrum when thick fluid or mucus accumulates in this space. This buildup often happens because the Eustachian tube—which connects the middle ear to the back of the nose—is not functioning properly. Excess fluid and mucus lead to ear pressure, discomfort, mild hearing loss and/or infection.
Symptoms of a Middle Ear Infection
The onset of otitis media symptoms is typically rapid. Symptoms include but are not limited to:
While some ear infections will go away on their own, most should be evaluated and treated by a medical professional.
Middle Ear Infection Treatment
Antibiotics: Ear infections are usually treated with antibiotics and other medications to alleviate congestion. After starting antibiotics, the infection should subside after a few days, and the fluid should resolve after a few weeks. If your child is experiencing frequent or particularly painful infections, or the fluid has not subsided after a few weeks, your provider may recommend ear tubes.
Ear Tubes: During a tube insertion procedure, our team will insert a small (3 mm long) silicone-coated plastic tube through the ear canal and into the eardrum to facilitate drainage. This procedure is quick and safe, lasting only 5-10 minutes under general anesthesia. Tubes last approximately 6-12 months, and do not need to be reinserted.
To learn more about this procedure and post-operative instructions, click here.
What is an Outer Ear Infection?
An infection in the outer ear, also known as swimmer’s ear, affects the ear’s outer structures. This infection occurs when water gets trapped in the ear canal after swimming, bathing, showering or another activity in which moisture gets in the ears. When this happens, bacteria can multiply, leading to irritation and infection. While there is no foolproof way to prevent swimmer’s ear, keeping the ears as dry as possible after swimming or bathing can help to reduce your risk.
Symptoms of an Outer Ear Infection
Swimmer’s ear can occur in both children and adults. Symptoms include but are not limited to:
Patients with swimmer’s ear may also experience a mild fever, though this is not always the case.
Outer Ear Infection Treatment
The best way to know whether you have swimmer’s ear is to schedule an appointment for an evaluation. If your provider determines you have swimmer’s ear, they may prescribe acidic ear drops to dry up the trapped moisture or antibiotic drops.
In more severe cases of swimmer’s ear, our team may clean the ear canal, apply suction to remove the moisture or place a medication-soaked sponge in the ear canal for 24-48 hours.
Relieve Your Child’s Ear Infections with Expert ENT Care in Richmond, VA
Recurring ear infections can impact your child’s comfort, hearing, and overall well-being, but effective solutions are available. At Virginia Ear Nose and Throat, we’re committed to helping your child hear clearly, feel better, and stay healthy.
Call us today at (804) 484-3700 to schedule your child’s appointment and take the first step toward relief from ear infections.