Wednesday, February 27, 2008 The err in ear infections By Dr. Elizabeth Bagares-Poyogao Pediacosset
SEVERAL weeks ago, I have encountered a number of children with fluid coming out from their ears. Some of the fluid is clear; some are yellowish in color and foul smelling. These are ear infections, known as Otitis externa/media.
What makes children susceptible to these ear infections? The Eustachian tube, which is a small passageway that connects the upper part of the throat to the middle ear, is shorter and straighter in the child than in the adult. When this is blocked by a mucus or sputum due to a previous history of colds or cough, fluid accumulates hence the fluid coming out from the ears. Children's resistance to infection is quite low as their immune system is still developing. Thus a slight exposure to pathogens or bacteria will lead to this infection.
Some mother's associate ear infections with teething, which is not the case. Once again, teething does not cause infections in a child.
Ear infections in a child can present as fluid draining from the ears, unexplained irritability, incessant crying, and fever, loss of appetite, body malaise and constant touching of the affected ear. When these signs and symptoms are present, don't hesitate to bring your child to a pediatrician to give early interventions.
Ear infections are treated initially with antibiotics and daily cleansing of the affected ear with hydrogen peroxide. Some of the mothers I know use baby oil to clean the ears. This is a big no-no as this will only aggravate the condition. If there is pain, pain relievers are given. The medications should be taken on the appropriate duration and dosage. After which, a follow-up check up is needed to evaluate the child's condition. Failure of the ear infection to clear up means another problem. A thorough work-up is needed for such cases.
(Dr. Betty Bagares-Poyogao is based in Oro Doctors General Hospital, St. Ignatius Medical Clinic and JR Borja General Hospital. For your questions, comments and suggestions email me at bettypoyogao@yahoo.com.)
