Ear infections can happen to anyone, and they are most common in children. Bacteria can get into the middle ear, causing inflammation and infection. Your ENT specialist can help. Dr. Andrew Pestcoe at The Head and Neck Center in Bethlehem, PA, provides comprehensive ENT services, including treatment of ear infections. He proudly serves residents of Bethlehem, and Allentown, PA.
What You Need To Know About Ear Infections
An ear infection can be a consequence of having a viral or bacterial infection like a cold, flu, or pink eye. They happen often in children because a child’s ear canals are smaller, don’t drain as well, and are more easily infected. You can do a lot to help prevent ear infections in both adults and children in your household. Remember to:
- Wash your hands and your child’s hands often
- Be vaccinated against the flu and pneumonia
- Avoid exposure of you and your child to cigarette smoke
There are several common signs and symptoms of an ear infection. Your child may have an ear infection if you notice your child is:
- Frequently fussy and crying
- Tugging or pulling at their ears
- Draining fluid out of their ears
- Experiencing trouble hearing sounds and responding
- Having a fever and trouble sleeping
- Experiencing problems with balance
Adults will have many of the same signs and symptoms, including a fever, ear pain, and difficulty hearing.
To treat an ear infection, your ENT specialist will recommend an antibiotic regimen to kill the bacteria causing the ear infection. The antibiotic regimen need to be taken for a full 7 to 10 days, depending on the antibiotic. Prescription-strength ear drops may also be recommended. Taking over-the-counter pain and anti-inflammatory medication is also helpful.
Children often have recurring ear infections. If this happens to your child, your ENT specialist may recommend the placement of ear tubes, to help increase airflow and drainage of fluid from the ears.
Want To Know More About Ear Infections?
To learn more about the causes, signs, symptoms, and treatment of ear infections, call Dr. Andrew Pestcoe at The Head and Neck Center in Bethlehem, PA, serving residents of Bethlehem, and Allentown, PA. You can reach him by calling (610) 691-2552, so call today.