Toddler Ear Infection Signs - Symptoms, Causes, Hearing Problems, Treatment

Toddler Ear Infection Signs: Ear Infection in Toddler, Conditions, Prevention

Ear infections in toddlers are caused by the invasion of bacteria or fungi into the external or the middle ear. Very often, it is due to the accumulation of dirt and water inside the ears that these microorganisms get the suitable atmosphere to grow and cause infections. The accumulated fluids cause a build-up of pressure on the ear drum and within the Eustachian tube, which causes pain in the ear. The most obvious signs of ear infection in a toddler are itching, irritation and pain inside the ears, which the toddler will surely complain of if s/he has already learnt to speak.

Toddler Ear Infection Conditions

Ear discharge may also occur due to an infection and the consequent damage caused to the eardrum. External inflammation around the aperture of the ear may also be noticed. Other signs of ear infection in toddlers include rise in the body temperature, fussiness and constant, inconsolable crying. Additional symptoms like cough, cold and a runny nose also often accompany this condition. In fact, ear infections often follow common cold as the immune system of the toddler gets compromised due to exposure to cold.

Preventing Ear Infection in Toddlers

There are a few basic precautionary measures that you should follow to protect your toddler from ear infections. Though bathing the child regularly is necessary for maintaining proper hygiene, do not overdo it, as this will increase the chances of accumulation of water inside the ears. Also, make sure that you clean the child's ears regularly with soft cotton buds in order to prevent the accumulation of ear wax inside the ears and thereby prevent bacterial and fungal growth. Protect your toddler from cold as this predisposes him/her to ear infections.

In addition to this, feed your child with natural sources of vitamins and minerals such as fresh fruits, raw vegetables, whole grains, nuts, milk and eggs. Vitamin C supplements may also be given to the toddler if s/he is especially prone to cold and ear infections. In addition, there are a few simple home remedies that you may follow if you observe signs of toddler ear infection. Crush a few fresh basil leave and gently pour a few drops of their juice into the infected ear. The natural antimicrobial property of basil juice helps treat the infections naturally. A mixture of olive oil and crushed garlic may also be administered into the ear in the same way for treating the infection.