While ear infections are usually not serious, they can be a painful and unpleasant experience. This is especially true for people who experience frequent infections or who have a child who does.
The good news is there are several prevention methods that can help reduce the risk of ear infections.
Who Is at Risk for an Ear Infection?
Anyone can develop an ear infection, but there are some factors that put a person more at risk. These include:
- Age. Children are more likely to experience ear infections than adults.
- Allergies
- Experiencing a recent upper respiratory tract infection
- Family history of ear infections
- Some chronic illnesses, like asthma
- Exposure to cigarette smoke
Symptoms of Ear Infections
If you or your child has an ear infection, common symptoms include:
- Ear pain
- Fluid draining from ear
- Fever
- Feeling of fullness in ear
- Muffled hearing
Ways to Prevent Ear Infections
Some ways to minimize your or your child’s risk of ear infections include:
- Practice good hygiene and wash your hands regularly to avoid germs.
- Manage allergies with medication or lifestyle remedies.
- Quit smoking and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Clean your ears after showering or going for a swim at the YMCA of Southern Maine.
- Avoid using cotton swabs or putting other objects into the ear.
For children specifically:
- If you bottle-feed, do so at an upright angle to avoid formula flowing into their Eustachian tubes.
- Keep an eye out for snoring or mouth-breathing. These may be signs of enlarged adenoids which can lead to frequent ear infections.
- If your child keeps getting recurring ear infections or is experiencing symptoms like hearing loss due to constant fluid buildup, they may benefit from ear tubes. These tubes are surgically inserted into your child’s ear to help drain fluid. They are temporary and fall out naturally as your child’s eardrum heals.
Can Vaccinations Prevent Ear Infections?
Certain vaccines can also reduce your or your child’s risk for ear infections. Specifically, vaccines that help prevent pneumonia and influenza can also reduce the risk of ear infections. Talk to your doctor about your or your child’s vaccination status to see if anyone is due for an immunization.
For more information about ear infections or to schedule an appointment, call Benjamin Liess MD today.