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Kids Ear Infections

Chronic middle ear infection is a very common medical condition affecting young children.

Middle ear infection is one of the most common childhood illnesses that causes them to visit a physician, says Dr. Leonard Rybak, professor of otolaryngology at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield.  Nearly two-thirds of children in the U.S. will have one episode of middle ear infection by age 1.  And three out of four children will have this infection by age 3.   Dr. Rybak explains some symptoms of a child’s ear infection.

SOUND BITE:  TR 4 (2:09 – 2:26)  “They may have a fever.  They may be pulling at their ears.  They may awaken during the night crying.  A lot of times it gets worse at night when they’re sleeping.  And of course if the ear drum ruptures, there would be draining coming out, which is puss.”

Dr. Rybak says ear infections are often caused by a respiratory infection or cold that causes the bacteria to go up through the back of the nose to the middle ear.  He explains some treatment options for ear infections.

SOUND BITE:  TR 4 (2:31 – 2:51)  “The primary treatment would be the use of antibiotics to clear up the infection.  . . .  And then as a preventive measure, there are some vaccines out now for some of the bacteria that can cause not only ear infections but also pneumonia.” 

If your child has symptoms of ear infection, they should be seen by a primary care physician or pediatrician for diagnosis and possible treatment before the problem becomes serious.

This is Ruth Slottag at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield.