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
Ear Tubes: A Simple Solution For Recurrent Ear Infections In Children
Ear tubes help children avoid the pain and hearing loss associated with recurrent ear infections by improving air circulation within the ear.
Do Carpal Tunnel Symptoms Return After Surgery? Some Simple Recovery Tips
Carpal tunnel can make basic hand movements painful. The following tips can improve recovery and prevent injury recurrences.
Rotator Cuff Rehab: 3 Tips For Speedy Recovery After Shoulder Surgery
Some people may need surgery to repair a rotator cuff injury. But these tips can help speed up the recovery timeline.
Clearing The Way: How Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Improves Quality Of Life
Chronic congested sinuses and sinusitis can be resolved with endoscopic sinus surgery. The procedure may improve sinus drainage, breathing, and overall health.
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“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.”
“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.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“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 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!”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“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. Best…is the best!”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“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.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“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.”
“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 ”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
Recent Posts
Ear Tubes: A Simple Solution For Recurrent Ear Infections In Children
Ear tubes help children avoid the pain and hearing loss associated with recurrent ear infections by improving air circulation within the ear.
Do Carpal Tunnel Symptoms Return After Surgery? Some Simple Recovery Tips
Carpal tunnel can make basic hand movements painful. The following tips can improve recovery and prevent injury recurrences.
Rotator Cuff Rehab: 3 Tips For Speedy Recovery After Shoulder Surgery
Some people may need surgery to repair a rotator cuff injury. But these tips can help speed up the recovery timeline.
Clearing The Way: How Endoscopic Sinus Surgery Improves Quality Of Life
Chronic congested sinuses and sinusitis can be resolved with endoscopic sinus surgery. The procedure may improve sinus drainage, breathing, and overall health.
