Ear infections

Ear infections are common in children, and occur when the middle ear becomes inflamed from a viral infection and causes fluid to build up behind the eardrum. They are also caused from swelling in the Eustachian tubes, or surrounding tissues. Over time, this fluid can become infected by one of several species of bacteria. Ear infections are more common in children because their Eustachian tubes are narrower and more horizontally oriented. In addition, their immune systems are not yet fully developed.

Children with ear infections may:

• Tug or pull at their ears
• Cry more than usual
• Have trouble sleeping
• Fail to respond to sound
• Be unusually irritable
• Develop a fever
• Develop fluid that drains from the ears
• Have headaches

Treatment:

If you feel you or your child may have an ear infection, visit a MedExpress location near you for an evaluation and treatment.

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