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Tracking Early Ear Symptoms Could Help You Prevent Future Infections

The traumatic scene caused by ear infections (also known as acute otitis media) is unmistakable: A child with fever. Pulling his ears. Crying out in pain. Sleepless nights (often for the entire family).

Ear infections, also known as otitis media, are commonly related to allergies that can cause ear inflammation, fluid buildup, and a ripe environment for bacteria. By keeping track of your child’s ear infections—and what leads up to them—you can help your doctor determine if an allergy is the underlying cause. This, in turn, could help you reduce the number of future infections. Follow these facts and hints to help prevent your child's next ear infection:

  1. Recognize the symptoms.
    Just knowing what the symptoms are will help you with early detection. The following are common symptoms of otitis media:
    • Ear pulling
    • Fever
    • Irritability
    • Uncontrolled crying
    • Trouble sleeping
    • Vomiting
    • Diarrhea
    • Hearing loss in affected ear
    • Any of the above happening shortly after a cold or other nasal symptoms

  2. Remember what happens before the ear infection.
    If your child develops an ear infection, think back. Did he or she have a cold or the flu beforehand? Maybe your child had symptoms suggestive of allergic rhinitis, such as a runny nose or coughing. Ear infections and allergic rhinitis often go hand in hand, so be sure to share this information with your doctor.

  3. Ways you can prevent an ear infection.
    • Create a log with all respiratory infections (colds, flu), symptoms of known allergy, other possible symptom triggers, and medications administered. Overlay any ear infection episodes
    • Wash hands and toys frequently
    • If your child attends day care, classes with 6 or fewer children can lessen the chance of an ear infection
    • Breastfeed. Or if bottle feeding, hold infant in upright position
    • Eliminate exposure to secondhand smoke
    • Vaccinate your child with the pneumococcal vaccine
    • Avoid overuse of antibiotics
    • Review the log regularly. This will help you determine causes and create your own list of situations or irritants to avoid

And remember to get tested.