If your child has ever had an ear infection, you know how painful it can be. Ear infections happen when there is inflammation - usually from trapped bacteria - in the middle ear, the part of the ear connects to the back of the nose and throat.The two types of ear infections often seen in children are middle ear infections (otitis media) and outer ear infections (otitis externa). Babies and young children get more middle ear infections than older children because they have smaller tubes (called the Eustachian tubes) that connect the middle ear to the throat.
Outer ear infections are usually due to excess moisture in the canal, for example after swimming. They can also be caused by damage to the canal (e.g. from scratching or cleaning with earbuds).
Most ear infections go away without treatment. It’s however important to see your healthcare provider to make sure the ear infection has healed or if you or your child has ongoing pain or discomfort. Hearing problems and other serious effects can occur with ongoing ear infections, frequent infections and when fluid builds up behind the eardrum.
Talk to the team at The Local Choice Pharmacy Hilton Health about any concerns you may have about your child’s health.
More about The Local Choice Pharmacy Hilton Health on Monzali Drive, Hilton, KZN.