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Otitis is a very common ENT disease in childhood. Most often, otitis occurs in children up to 6 years of age and the older the child is, the risk of developing the disease decreases. Otitis in children is most often preceded by an infection of the upper respiratory tract. What are the causes, symptoms and how to treat ear infections in a child?
The causes of otitis in a child
The tube connecting the middle ear to the throat in children is shorter, so otitis is a very common disease in children. Most often, otitis in children occurs as a result of the spread of a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. Due to the immature immune system in children, ear infections are very common.
The causes of this disease in older children are genetic predisposition, allergy, gastroesophageal reflux and frequent colds. In babies who are lying down, nasal secretions travel to the Eustachian tubes, causing otitis in the youngest. Factors contributing to otitis in children include inadequate nutrition, insufficient outdoor exercise, third tonsil overgrowth and being in rooms polluted with cigarette smoke.
Symptoms of otitis in a child
Inflammation of the ear in a child is an infection that begins with a runny nose, high temperature, vomiting, and a lack of appetite. The child becomes weepy and anxious due to the earache. An older child who begins to develop otitis may complain of earache, decreased hearing, tinnitus, and abdominal pain. It is very difficult to diagnose otitis in an infant.
It is very important to observe the youngest children, who may cry for no reason, pull their ear or rub it against the pillow in case of otitis. If you notice a yellowish spot on the child’s pillow, see a doctor immediately, as this may mean that the eardrum has ruptured and inflammatory discharge from the ear has leaked out.
Treatment of otitis in a child
Otitis in a child requires consultation with an ENT specialist. The ear examination is painless and is performed with the use of a special instrument – an otoscope. If your child’s ear infection is diagnosed by your doctor, they will most likely prescribe an antibiotic, painkillers and anti-pyretics. It is important that in the case of a child’s ear infection, leave the child at home for a few days, apply warm and dry compresses to the ear and its vicinity, which will bring relief to the child.
If your child has otitis several times a year, it is worth consulting an allergist, as the condition may be allergic. Frequently occurring otitis in a child should be run by an ENT specialist who systematically cleans the ear canal and may use an antibiotic or antifungal drug.
Untreated otitis in a child can lead to many complications, including mastoiditis, turbinitis, otitis media, and even hearing loss. It is very important to prevent otitis in children by limiting unnecessary manipulations within the ear canal and removal of residual earwax by a doctor.
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