Ear infections are one of the most common reasons parents take their children to the doctor. They can cause significant discomfort, irritability, and even temporary hearing loss. This article will answer all your questions about ear infections in kids, including causes, symptoms, treatment options, and how to prevent future infections.
At After Hours Kids in Austin, Texas, we specialize in pediatric care, including the diagnosis and treatment of ear infections. We are open seven nights a week, ensuring your child gets the care they need when it matters most. If your child is experiencing ear pain, fever, or other concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to schedule a visit.
An ear infection occurs when bacteria or viruses cause inflammation in the ear, leading to pain, fluid buildup, and discomfort. Most ear infections affect the middle ear, the air-filled space behind the eardrum containing tiny bones responsible for hearing.
There are three main types of ear infections:
Ear infections happen when the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the throat, become blocked. This can cause fluid to accumulate, leading to infection. Common causes include:
Certain risk factors can increase the chance of your child getting an ear infection. These risk factors include the following:
The most common ear infection symptoms in children include:
If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, After Hours Kids can help. Our pediatricians are available every evening to evaluate your child’s condition and provide the necessary care.
If your child is suffering from ear pain, here are some steps to help relieve their discomfort:
If pain persists or worsens, visit After Hours Kids for a thorough evaluation and treatment.
Not all ear infections require antibiotics. Many mild ear infections clear up on their own within a few days. However, antibiotics may be prescribed if:
Our team at After Hours Kids can determine if antibiotics are necessary or if a “watch and wait” approach is best.
Most middle ear infections improve within 2–3 days, but middle ear fluid can take weeks to fully drain. Chronic or recurrent ear infections may require additional treatment, such as ear tubes, to prevent fluid buildup and future infections.
If your child experiences frequent ear infections, schedule an appointment with After Hours Kids to discuss possible treatment options.
At After Hours Kids, we understand that ear infections can be painful and disruptive. That’s why we provide after-hours pediatric care in Austin, TX, seven nights a week.
If your child is experiencing ear pain, fever, or other symptoms of an ear infection, we are here to help.
Medically reviewed by Emily D. Woodard
Most ear infections only cause temporary hearing loss due to fluid buildup.
Ear tubes are small tubes inserted into the eardrum to allow fluid drainage. They are recommended for children who have repeated ear infections or persistent middle ear fluid that affects hearing.
To help prevent ear infections in children:
Ear infections are more common in infants and toddlers naturally due to their anatomy. Initially, the eustachian tube is more narrow and horizontal, so mucus behind the nose more easily lingers in the eustachian tube than in those who are older, where the tube is wider and more vertical, helping facilitate drainage.
Seek medical attention if:
At After Hours Kids, we are available every night to assess and treat ear infections in kids. Contact us today for expert pediatric care.
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