How common are ear infections in very young children?

Ear infections are among the most common of pediatric complaints. Over 80% of children have invariably suffered at least one bout of ear infection by the time they are three years of age.

Why do children develop ear infections?

When a child suffers an upper respiratory tract infection, it can cause an accumulation of fluid behind the eardrum. Usually, this becomes infected a few weeks after the respiratory tract infection has settled down. In very young babies the length of the Eustachian tube that connects the throat to the ear is very short and hence, accumulation of fluids can happen easily.

What are the signs that my child has an ear infection?

You should show your child to an ENT pediatrician if you observe any of the following symptoms that are likely to indicate an ear infection:

• The child seems irritable and is crying more than usual
• The child keeps pulling or tugging at the ear
• There is a fever in association with the above symptoms
• Your child finds it hard to sleep

How long does it take for an ear infection to be cured in a child?

Most ear infections normally become better within 36 to 48 hours. However, as the bacteria that cause the infection are being seen to become progressively more drug-resistant, some ear infections could be a little more persistent.

Does the fluid accumulate behind the eardrum drain away immediately?

No, it might take anywhere between one and three months for the fluid that gathers behind the eardrum to drain.

What should I do if my child continues to have signs of an ear infection for over three months?

In such a case it is important to ensure that there is no loss of hearing. In some cases, the ENT physician may recommend the insertion of tympanostomy tubes, also known as ear tubes. These tubes are placed under general anesthesia and will remain in the ear for about a year after which they fall out on their own.