Ear Infections in Children

Ear infections in children are very common. Because the ear hasn’t developed fully yet, it is more susceptible to get infected. There are three main types of ear infections in children:

Acute Otitis media is the most common ear infection and occurs when fluid is trapped behind the eardrum. Parts of the middle ear will also become swollen and infected causing pain in the ear.

Otitis media with effusion occurs when an ear infection appears to have run its course but fluid is still trapped behind the eardrum. Doctors are able to see this with special instruments and can advise the parent on the next course of action to cure the infection.

Chronic otitis media with effusion is when fluid continuously returns and remains in the middle ear. In some cases the fluid will return over and over again, even if there is no infection. This type of ear infection could eventually affect the child’s hearing.

If your child is having trouble sleeping, running a fever, or seems bothered by his or her ears, contact Northeast Georgia ENT today to schedule an appointment. It is important to see a doctor as soon as possible if the ear infection persists.