The Truth About Ear Infections
Last updated on February 15, 2023
An ear infection (otitis media) is an inflammation of the middle ear, usually caused by bacteria when fluid builds up behind the eardrum. This may be caused by colds, allergies, excess mucus, upper respiratory tract infection or changes in air pressure and swollen adenoids. Unfortunately, children are more susceptible to getting an ear infection. In fact, according to the National Institute on deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIH), five out of six children will have at least one ear infection by their third birthday. Therefore, many concerned parents bring their child to a medical practitioner to seek treatment and course of action.
CHILDREN ARE MORE VULNERABLE THAN ADULTS
Children are more vulnerable to an ear infection due to the Eustachian tubes being significantly smaller and less angled than in adults and have not fully developed yet. As a result, it can be difficult for fluid to drain out. Therefore, sometimes the Eustachian tubes swell and get blocked up by mucus.
The immune system in young children is also not fully developed yet. Therefore, it is challenging to fight off infections and children become more susceptible to getting an ear infection.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF EAR INFECTION
- The child having trouble sleeping
- Fussiness and crying
- Ear pain
- Tugging or pulling of the ear(s)
- Fever (especially in infants and young children)
- Fluid draining from the ear
- Poor balance/clumsiness
- Trouble hearing or responding
DOES CHIROPRACTIC CARE HELP WITH EAR INFECTIONS?
Researchers have found Chiropractic care and adjustments may help with management of children with ear infections. One study found that 93% of the children involved had improved symptoms. Therefore, natural remedies and alternative therapy may help children with ear infections.
WHAT'S NEXT?
At Ripple Chiropractic, we will assess thoroughly to see if there are ways we can assist the child to improve comfort levels and help them improve their nervous system function
REFERENCES:
Ear infections in children (no date) National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Available at: https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/ear-infections-children#:~:text=An%20ear%20infection%20is%20an,infection%20by%20their%20third%20birthday (Accessed: January 9, 2023).
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Ear Infections in Children. 2017. The Role of the Chiropractic Adjustment in the Care and Treatment of 332 Children with Otitis Media. Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics 1997.