What is it?

• Fluid and pus builds up behind the ear drum which in turn becomes inflamed and intense pain is the result.

What are the causes?

• The middle ear is a prime target for germs looking for trouble and they find it in this warm, moist and poorly drained environment. This is especially so when a cold, allergy or congestion of some kind blocks the eustachian tube that connects the middle ear to the nose. Germs of all kinds can produce infection in the middle ear. Younger children are more likely to be the victims but no age is every immune to middle ear infections.

Possible Symptoms:

• Pain. The hallmark of a middle ear infection is pain.
• Fever. Very prevalent with this type of infection and may be quite high - in excess  of 103 F at times.
• Congestion, cough, runny nose, inflamed eyes.
• Occasional severe headache.
• Vomiting is rare, but if pain is severe it may occur.

What is the treatment?

• For infections caused by bacteria the use of antibiotics is warranted.
• Many ear infections are caused by viruses so pain relief is all that may be necessary.
• Relief of pain - use simple analgesics such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
• Remember: NO ASPIRIN!
• If severe pain is persistent - a prescription for a codeine derivative may be necessary. This is to be advised only by your child's doctor.
• Don't use left over medicines and always treat for the full period of time prescribed, even if symptoms have disappeared.

Call the Doctor if:

• Fever is accompanied by thick yellow drainage from the nose or eyes.
• Pain is definitely noted.
• Severe headache and or vomiting occurs in association with ear ache.
• Fever 'spikes' or shoots up rapidly.

What will the Doctor do?

• If an ear infection is suspected, an examination by a qualified health professional should establish the diagnosis.
• Always arrange for a follow up visit to determine if the middle ear is clear of fluid and infection.
• If the infections recur frequently or if they do not clear when treated, make sure to test your child's hearing. In some cases, tubes or grommets may be placed in the eardrum to provide adequate drainage and dry things out!

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