In shortMany middle ear infections settle in a few days, but they need a doctor’s check. Never use cotton buds or ear candles: earwax usually clears by itself.
It is 11 p.m., your toddler is tugging at an ear and nothing will console them. Ear infections are among the most common reasons young children come to see me in HSR Layout. The second most common question? "Should I clean the wax?" Let me answer both.
Why are ear infections common in kids?
The middle ear is connected to the back of the nose by a small tube. In children this tube is short and flat, so germs from a cold can travel up and fluid gets trapped behind the eardrum. That fluid becomes infected, causing pain and fever.
Signs of an ear infection
- Ear pain, often worse when lying down
- Fever and irritability, or poor sleep and feeding in babies
- Tugging or rubbing at the ear (but this alone does not prove an infection)
- Discharge from the ear
- Trouble hearing, such as not responding to sound
What helps?
Pain relief as advised by your doctor, plenty of fluids and rest. Many infections improve within two to three days, and the doctor will decide whether antibiotics are needed based on the child's age, how unwell they are and what the eardrum looks like. Please do not put oils, drops or home remedies into an aching ear without advice, especially if there is any discharge, because the eardrum may have a small tear.
Now, about that earwax
Earwax is not dirt. It protects the ear, traps dust and germs, and normally moves out on its own. Most ears do not need cleaning at all.
Safe
- Wiping the outer ear with a damp cloth
- Leaving the wax alone if there are no problems
- Seeing a doctor if the ear feels blocked
- Keeping ears dry after swimming, as advised
Please never use
- Cotton buds, hairpins or matchsticks
- Ear candles
- Sharp or home-made tools
- Strong drops without advice
- Water or oil if the eardrum may be torn
If your child's ear feels blocked or hearing seems reduced, come and see us. Wax removal is quick and painless when done properly with the right instruments.
Go straight to a doctor if
There is swelling or redness behind the ear, severe pain, a very high fever, dizziness, weakness of the face, or pus or blood coming from the ear. Also tell us if your child has repeated infections, as this can affect hearing and speech.
See a doctor in HSR Layout, Bangalore
CARE Speciality Clinic offers ENT care and ear treatment in HSR Layout with Dr. Rekha AR, open Monday to Saturday. Patients come from Agara, Koramangala, BTM Layout, Sarjapur Road, Bellandur and Haralur. Book online or call 96320 71178.
Book appointment Learn more about our care
Consultant ENT Specialist, MBBS, DLO. Sees patients Mon–Sat at CARE Speciality Clinic, HSR Layout.
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This article is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation.