FAQ: Ear Infections in Children
January 2, 2025
Many parents know all too well that ear infections are common in young children. Ear infections occur when fluid builds up and beomes infected in the middle part of the ear behind the ear drum. They often happen after a cold or virus.
If you think your child has an ear infection, see your primary care provider or go to Urgency Care.
Why are ear infections more common in children than adults?
There are three parts of the ear: outer ear, middle ear and inner ear. The middle ear is an open space, normally filled with air, between the ear drum and the inner ear. The eustachian tube runs from the middle ear to the throat. It opens and closes to equalize pressure when you go up or down a hill or fly.
The eustachian tube doesn’t always work properly if there is a viral or bacterial infection, allergies, colds, or respiratory illnesses. Children are more susceptible to ear infections because the eustachian tube is smaller and more horizontal, making it difficult for the fluid to drain out. In fact, 5 out of 6 children have at least one ear infection by 3 years old. As we get older, the eustachian tube gets bigger and tilts, so the fluid can drain out easier.
Can an ear infection cause hearing loss?
An ear infection, also called otitis media, can affect hearing because sound can’t get to the inner ear as well. Things can sound quieter, muffled and not clear. The hearing loss is usually mild and usually gets better after the ear infection goes away. If ear infections are chronic, hearing loss can be worse or can cause a hole in the eardrum. In some children, fluid can stay in the ear after the infection has cleared. If hearing loss lasts a long time, it can cause problems with children’s speech. If they can’t hear speech well, they can’t say it well.
If you have concerns about your child’s speech, hearing, or a possible ear infection, see your primary care provider so proper treatment can be taken, and referrals can be made if necessary.
Can ear infections be prevented?
The best way to help prevent ear infections is to try to stay healthy, get recommended vaccines, avoid people who are sick, wash your hands, and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.