Earache in children is one of the most worrying conditions for parents. Whether the child is a baby or school-aged, earache makes them irritable, disturb their sleep, and reduce their appetite.Sometimes the cause is a simple cold, but in other cases it can signal more serious ear or throat problems. Therefore, parents should know the causes, symptoms, and treatment of earache in children. As Saglam Aile Medical Center, we explain the most important points about the subject in this article.
Causes of Earache in Children
Earaches should not be thought of as problems that arise only in the ear itself. Often, ear, throat, nose, and even dental problems are related.
- Middle ear infection (otitis media) - is the most common cause in children. It occurs when fluid builds up in the ear due to a cold or nasal congestion, leading to inflammation.
- Earwax – when excess wax accumulates in the ear canal, both pain and hearing loss can occur.
- Colds and flu – nasal congestion can increase pressure in the ear, leading to pain.
- Sore throat and tonsillitis – inflammation in the throat can spread to the ear, causing pain.
- Teething – in infants, the pain caused by teething can sometimes radiate to the ear, which may confuse parents.
- Foreign object in the ear – children may sometimes insert small objects into their ears while playing, which can cause both pain and infection.
Symptoms of Earache in Children
It can sometimes be difficult to understand earache in children because young children cannot express themselves properly. It is very important for parents to be attentive and observe their child's behavior. Earache usually haa a direct impact on the child's daily behavior and mood.
The most common symptoms are:
- The child frequently grabs and pulls at the ear;
- Restlessness at night, frequent waking, and difficulty sleeping;
- Loss of appetite, refusal to eat;
- Clear or purulent discharge from the ear;
- High fever and fatigue;
- Distraction and irritability.
In infants, ear pain often leads to increased crying, and the child may have difficulty calming down. In adults, a feeling of pressure in the ear and hearing loss may also be observed. These symptoms are a warning sign for parents and it is important to have the child examined by a doctor.
Treatment of Earache in Children
Treatment varies depending on the cause. The same method cannot be applied to every child. At Sağlam Ailə Medical Center, children who come in with complaints of earache are examined by specialists, and appropriate treatment is prescribed. Parents should be aware that self-medication or the use of ear drops can harm the child. All treatment should only be carried out under a doctor's supervision.