Ear infections in children can be caused by a cold that lasts a long time

The common cold is one of the common diseases of children. This is because the immune system of small children is not as strong as adults. Even so, that does not mean that children with colds should be left untreated. A cold that does not heal can increase the risk of ear infections in children. You know, what's the connection?

Colds that do not heal can increase the risk of ear infections in children

Under normal circumstances, the eustachian tube (eustachian tube ; see picture below) which connects the upper throat to the middle ear (middle ear; see the picture below) will open and close to regulate air circulation and keep the air pressure in the ear balanced.

Location of the eustachian tube or eustachian tube (credit: Katelynmcd.com)

The common cold can be caused by a viral infection that attacks the nose, throat and sinuses. When you have the flu, the mucus, aka mucus, produced by the sinuses can block the eustachian tubes. Most of this mucus can then drain and fill the empty space in the middle ear that should only be filled with air.

If the middle ear is clogged with fluid, it can increase the risk of bacteria and viruses multiplying in it, causing inflammation of the middle ear. The longer the cold is left on, the more mucus can pool in the middle ear.

In addition, constantly trying to hold your mucus in order not to run out will also make the germs that live in the cavity behind your nose and back of your mouth to “swim” to your ears. This can increase the risk of developing inflammation of the middle ear.

Middle ear infection is called otitis media. Common symptoms include fever, nasal congestion, ear pain, discharge from the ear (yellow, clear, or bloody discharge), decreased appetite, and swollen eardrums.

Children are more prone to ear infections than adults

Anyone can get an ear infection after a cold if it doesn't go away. Even so, children are more susceptible to ear infections because their immune systems are not strong enough to fight different types of germs.

In addition, the length of the eustachian tubes in children is shorter and more horizontal than in adults. This can make it easier for viruses and bacteria to travel to the middle ear.

Comparison of the eustachian tract in children and adults

How to prevent ear infections in children?

Here are some ways you can avoid ear infections in children:

Go to a doctor if your child's cold doesn't go away. Colds are usually accompanied by fever and last about 1-2 weeks. Even so, inflammation of the respiratory tract that is too long is a risk factor for ear infections.
Avoid using a pacifier on your little one. When using a pacifier, make sure it is clean.
Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke.
Keep the child clean so that the disease does not get worse. Ask him to always wash his hands after cleaning or blowing his nose, and before and after eating. Teach children to cover their mouths when sneezing or coughing.
Provide nutritious food while the child or other family member is sick.

What should I do if I have an ear infection?

Ear infections can be treated with prescription antibiotics, such as amoxicillin. Antibiotics are usually prescribed for children, or in the case of adults with severe ear infections - characterized by a high fever of up to 39ºC and severe ear pain for more than 48 hours.

If the infection occurs repeatedly and is accompanied by discharge and even decreased hearing ability, the doctor will recommend a tympanostomy procedure. A tympanostomy is performed by inserting a small tube into the eardrum which functions to regulate moisture and suck out fluid buildup in the middle ear.