Learning About Diagnosing Common Health Problems

Posted on: 8 August 2017

Ear infections are nothing to laugh at, especially when it comes to your baby. If not treated properly, ear infections can pose serious health risks for your little one. Not only that, but they can make your baby feel miserable. If your baby has been running a fever, or is tugging on its ears, you should contact their pediatrician as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics for the condition. If your pediatrician prescribes antibiotics, it's going to take a few days for the symptoms to subside. In the meantime, your baby is still going to be in some pain. Here are some steps you can take to alleviate the pain and discomfort your baby is experiencing.

Soothe the Ear

Ear infections can be quite painful. To help your baby feel better, you'll want to take steps to soothe its ears. Applying warmth to the outside of your baby's ears can help soothe the pain. Soak a clean cloth in warm water and wring it out well. Place the compress on your baby's ear and leave it in place for about 10 minutes. Repeat as often as necessary.

Encourage Drainage

When your baby has an ear infection, the Eustachian tubes can fill with fluid, which can increase the pain. If your baby also has a sinus infection at the same time, the increased sinus pressure can also add to the ear pain. Here are a couple ways to encourage drainage.

Elevate Their Head

Lying flat can increase the fluid buildup inside your baby's sinus passages. Elevating one end of the crib mattress can help your baby's sinuses drain while they sleep. You can also place your baby in their car seat, or swing for a few minutes. However, don't leave your baby unattended in either devices.

Offer Plenty of Fluids

While your baby has an ear infection, fluids are building up in their Eustachian tubes. Each time your baby swallows, fluid trapped inside the tubes is able to escape. To keep the tubes clear, and reduce pressure, offer your baby plenty of fluids.

Watch for Warning Signs

In most cases, ear infections will clear up in a matter of days. However, occasionally ear infections can become more serious, and require emergency care. While your baby is recovering from their ear infection, continue to watch for warning signs. Some signs you should watch for include increased pain, fever that won't go away, and greenish discharge from the ears. If you notice any of those symptoms, contact your pediatrician immediately.