How Common Are Pediatric Ear Infections?
Ear infections are common in children. In fact, up to 5 in 6 children have at least one ear infection before turning 3. An ear infection, also called otitis media, is inflammation in the middle ear. Often, children get a cold before developing an ear infection. Because children have smaller and narrower Eustachian tubes, pediatric earaches are more common than adult ones. Children don’t always need to see a doctor for an earache. Try these 5 pain relief remedies and know when to see an otolaryngologist.
1. Warm compresses
One of the most frustrating parts of ear infections is the pain. Children may experience some pain relief from a warm washcloth held over the ear for about 10-15 minutes at a time. The combination of warmth and moisture can feel very soothing.
2. Olive oil
Children may also benefit from a few drops of warm olive oil. Alternatively, parents can try using sesame oil. The oil can help break up ear wax and relieve aching. Olive oil also has some antibacterial properties. Beware, however, that this remedy is not safe if a child’s eardrum has burst or if there is fluid draining from the ear.
3. Garlic and onions
Both garlic and onions can be used as natural infection-fighting agents. To use garlic, cook 2-3 garlic cloves in olive oil. Then, strain the mixture into a small dish. Using a medicine dropper, apply 1-2 drops in the child’s ear. The same strategy can be used for onions. Children may need to lay on the side for a few minutes to let the drop work.
4. Over-the-counter pain relievers
Depending on the child’s age, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be an appropriate treatment. Common options include ibuprofen and acetaminophen. In teenagers, aspirin may also be an option, depending on the advice of a pediatrician or other healthcare provider.
5. Elevation
Resting with the head slightly elevated can encourage ear fluid to drain properly. Older children can sleep with the head elevated on two pillows. Do not place pillows under a baby’s head in a crib. Instead, place a pillow or two underneath the mattress to slightly elevate the top portion of the crib.
When should I go to an ENT?
Many children get earaches or ear infections, and not all need antibiotics. However, if symptoms are worsening or if the infection lasts more than 7-10 days, schedule an appointment with an otolaryngologist. These doctors are ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists who can provide appropriate treatment options.
Recent Posts
Tired Of Your Ankles Giving Out? Schedule Outpatient Ankle Stabilization
A previous ankle sprain or injury can cause the joint to repeatedly give way. Outpatient ankle stabilization surgery may be the answer.
Permanent Allergies: When To Say Yes To Nasal & Sinus Surgery
Can an allergy become permanent? Chronic nasal and sinus inflammation can lead to permanent allergies, which may require surgery.
How Long Do I Need To Go To Physical Therapy After My ACL Surgery?
After ACL surgery, physical therapy is necessary to achieve full recovery. Most patients require 6-9 months of PT to strengthen the knee.
Ice Cream? What To Expect For Your Tonsillectomy Or Adenoidectomy
A tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy removes small glands to prevent future infections. ice Ice cream can help patients during recovery.
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
