For some families, ear infections are an ever-present concern. If your child seems to bounce from one ear infection to the next, an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist can play a crucial role in finding lasting relief.
Why Ear Infections Are So Common in Young Children
Ear infections are common in early childhood. Most children will experience at least one ear infection before their third birthday. These infections develop when fluid gets trapped behind the eardrum, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. Young children are especially prone to this fluid buildup because their Eustachian tubes, the small passages that drain fluid from the middle ear, are smaller than those of adults. The smaller tubes have trouble draining fluid properly, particularly during colds, allergies or sinus infections, which leads to more frequent ear infections.
Signs It May Be Time for an ENT
If your child experiences recurring ear infections that don’t fully resolve or cause significant discomfort, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with one of our ENT specialists. Depending on your child’s medical history and current symptoms, treatment may focus on reducing the risk of repeat infections, managing active infections or addressing any complications.
For children with chronic or recurrent ear infections, an ENT specialist may recommend ear tubes. These tiny tubes are placed in the eardrum to allow air to flow into the middle ear and help fluid drain more effectively, reducing the likelihood of future infections. Ear tubes typically fall out on their own after several months.
If an infection is severe or long-lasting, your child’s ENT specialist may recommend antibiotics to clear the infection. In some cases, they’ll use ear tubes to help drain fluid from the ear. If the fluid causes the eardrum to tear, they may also recommend a procedure to place a medicated patch over the eardrum while it heals.
Helping Your Child Feel Better
If your child continues to struggle with ear pain or repeat infections, contact us at ENT of Georgia North to schedule a consultation with one of our trusted specialists. We’ll help your child feel well enough for school, days at the Grant Park playground and all the other things that make them happy.
