Explainer: what are middle ear infections and how are they treated?
Middle ear infections (otitis media) are a common and often painful condition that most children will experience at least once in their first year. The infection takes hold when a bacteria or virus invades the middle ear. Babies aged six to 12 months are particularly susceptible because their immune systems have yet to develop the ability to mount a defence against the offending bugs. Babies’ Eustachian tubes – which drain fluid from the middle ear and the throat – are also not fully developed. This allows bacteria to build up rather than be removed from the ear. Babies’ Eustachian tubes aren’t fully developed. Shutterstock/Alila Medical Media With treatment and monitoring, most children will recover quickly. But for some, ear infections will become a persistent problem. Symptoms and treatment It can be difficult to know if your child is suffering an ear infection. Common signs are pulling at their ears, irritability, fever and lack of appetite. Older children may complain t