Because of children's narrow eustachian tubes and underdeveloped immune systems, they're more likely to acquire ear infections. The practitioners at Growing Together Pediatrics, with locations in Orlando and Ocoee, FL, recommend parents know the signs of ear infections so they can get their little ones the care needed to prevent the suffering and potential complications associated with ear infections.
Signs Specific to Younger Children
When children are too young to communicate that they're in pain, you have to look for cues that something is wrong. When it comes to ear infections in infants and toddlers, you may notice they're tugging on their ears. They might also be fussier than usual and cry more frequently or for longer periods. Children, especially younger ones, are more likely to have a fever from an ear infection.
Ear Discharge
No matter your little one's age, there may be fluid or pus coming from an infected ear. The discharge or pus may range from clear to yellow to even green, varying based on the severity and type of the infection, how the immune system responds to it, and the substances that may mix with the discharge.
Difficulty Hearing
An ear infection can cause your children to struggle to hear clearly. Sounds may seem distant or muffled, and they might also be sensitive to certain frequencies of sound. Sometimes, ringing in the ears may occur.
Balance Issues
Located in the innermost portion of the ear are parts of the vestibular system, which are responsible for controlling balance. For this reason, an ear infection may impact your child's balance, leading to clumsiness or coordination issues. Besides experiencing balance problems, your child may also feel dizzy.
Trouble Sleeping
The discomfort caused by ear infections may lead to difficulty falling asleep or waking up frequently throughout the night.
Feeling Fullness in the Ear
Swelling, fluid, and added pressure in the ear from an infection can cause a feeling of fullness in the ears.
Earache
Ear infections can also cause significant ear pain until they resolve. The pain tends to gradually decrease as the infection heals, which we can help with at our Orlando and Ocoee, FL, offices.
Respiratory Symptoms Before or During
Respiratory illnesses are known causes of ear infections, so your child may develop one before or while battling an ear infection.
Find the Right Pediatrician Near You for Your Child
When you bring your child into our Orlando and Ocoee, FL, offices, the specialists at Growing Together Pediatrics can provide treatment for an ear infection and prevent possible complications, such as hearing loss. Call us at (407) 770-1414 today to schedule an appointment.