Why Does My Child Keep Getting Ear Infections?
An ear infection, or acute otitis media, is the second most common pediatric diagnosis in emergency departments, behind upper respiratory infections. It is estimated that at least sixty percent of children have at least one episode of acute otitis media by the age of four years old.
Chiropractors can provide natural treatments to support the body’s defense against ear infections and can help reduce pain.
How Can I Tell if My Child Has an Ear Infection?
It can be hard to know if a child has an ear infection, not only because the symptoms can sometimes be vague, but also because it is hard for infants and young children to communicate how they are feeling, especially if they aren’t talking yet! Look out for these signs in your kids that may indicate they are experiencing an ear infection:
Pulling or tugging at the ears
Irritability
Disturbed sleep
Poor feeding
Fluid leaking from the ears
Trouble hearing or responding to sounds
Possible low-grade fever
Why Do Ear Infections Occur?
Bacterial or viral infections can cause ear infections. Kids are especially susceptible to ear infections due to their structural anatomy. The child’s middle ear space is smaller and more horizontal than that of adults, so it is easier for pathogens to enter the eustachian tube (the space where the ear connects to the nose and throat). This leads to decreased ventilation, negative pressure, lack of fluid drainage, and a buildup of bacteria and viruses in the middle ear.
Unfortunately, continuous treatment of ear infections using antibiotics can lead to resistance in the body, making it difficult to treat future infections (if bacterial). So what are other ways we can help?
How a Chiropractor Can Help with Ear Infection:
Pediatric Chiropractors can help relieve and even prevent ear infections using gentle mobilization and soft tissue techniques to aid in lymphatic drainage and improve eustachian tube function. Spinal alignment can ease neck discomfort while balancing the nervous system. This reduces inflammation, relieves ear pressure, and promotes normal drainage.
Read more about how chiropractic care can help for babies and children.
Natural Remedies for Ear Infections
Herbal remedies are natural and safe ways to promote immune health.
Mullein Garlic oil drops into the ear have been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects to combat ear infections. Our favorite drops are available in our Fullscript store.
Breastmilk contains antibodies that help to fight ear infections, and babies breastfed for at least 6 months have a 17% lower risk of developing them. Not only that but adding a few drops of breastmilk 2-3 times per day into the affected ear can also help ease ear infection pain.
Making sure to support immune function by eating lots of fruits and vegetables, getting adequate vitamin D levels, and plenty of exercise is also beneficial in preventing ear infections!
We Can Help With Ear Infections
If you, your child, or your baby are struggling with ear pain or chronic ear infections, contact us! We would be happy to help you all feel relief! You can call us at 720-403-8255 or schedule an appointment online.