Otitis Media

At Kids 1st Urgent Care, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective treatment for middle ear infections. We understand that an ear infection can be distressing for both your child and your family. Our team is committed to delivering care with empathy and reassurance, helping to alleviate discomfort and anxiety. We follow clinical pathways established by leading pediatric institutions to ensure that your child receives the highest standard of care.

What is a Middle Ear Infection?

A middle ear infection, also known as otitis media, is an inflammation occurring in the air-filled space behind the eardrum. This condition can be quite painful as it involves fluid buildup that presses against the eardrum. While middle ear infections can affect adults, they are notably more prevalent in children. By age 3, more than 80 percent of children will have experienced at least one ear infection.

Types of Middle Ear Infection

Acute Otitis Media (AOM)

• ‍Description: A sudden onset of infection in the middle ear, causing swelling and redness. Fluid and mucus get trapped inside, leading to fever, ear pain, and hearing loss.

Otitis Media with Effusion (OME)

• Description: This follows an acute infection where fluid and mucus remain in the middle ear even after the infection has subsided. Symptoms include a feeling of fullness and hearing loss.

Chronic Otitis Media with Effusion (COME)

• Description: The infection clears up, but fluid remains or recurs repeatedly, potentially causing ongoing hearing loss and difficulty in fighting new infections.

Causes of Ear Infections

Middle ear infections often occur when the Eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the back of the nose, becomes blocked or malfunctions. This tube regulates air pressure and drains fluid. Blockages due to a cold, allergies, or inflammation can trap fluid and lead to bacterial or viral growth.

Children are particularly susceptible due to their shorter, more horizontal Eustachian tubes, which make it easier for bacteria to enter and harder for fluid to drain. Additionally, younger children have less robust immune systems, further increasing their risk.

Factors that can increase the likelihood of ear infections in children include:

• Family history of ear infections
• Poor immune system
• Exposure to smoke or air pollution
• Attendance at daycare
• Bottle-feeding while lying down or frequent pacifier use

Signs and Symptoms

Common symptoms of a middle ear infection in children include:

• Ear pain (most common complaint)
• Unusual irritability
• Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep
• Tugging or pulling at the ears
• Fever
• Fluid draining from the ear
• Loss of balance
• Hearing difficulties
• Poor feeding

Testing and Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves a thorough medical history and physical examination.

Treatment for Ear Infections

Treatment options are tailored to the child’s age, health, and the severity of the infection. Possible treatments include:

• Antibiotic Medication: Oral antibiotics or ear drops may be prescribed if a bacterial infection is suspected.
• Pain Medication: To manage discomfort.
• Ear Tubes: For persistent fluid accumulation lasting more than three months, small tubes may be inserted to help drain fluid and prevent future infections.

Child-Friendly Environment

Understanding that medical treatments can be stressful for children, all of our providers have been trained by our Child Life Specialists on how to approach your child in a friendly and compassionate manner. We strive to make the experience as stress-free as possible, with a child- centered environment and a caring staff that helps ease any anxiety.

Kids 1st Urgent Care sources its medical research from leading authorities in pediatric medicine, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Texas Children’s Hospital.