Generally known as acute otitis media, middle ear infections are quite common in young children because of their ear's anatomy and their immune system. Adults have ear canals (known as Eustachian tubes) that slant down towards the nose and mouth, promoting proper drainage of fluid. Children, on the other hand, have horizontal ear canals making drainage challenging. Ear fluid then has the ability to collect and create a blockage. As they continue to grow and develop, the ear canal eventually slopes downwards to resemble that of adults.
Because children have immature immune systems until they are about 7 years old, they’re more likely to get sick when they encounter a bug. Once their immune system encounters a virus, it will be activated and cause increased fluid production, leading to inflammation and swelling of the ear, nose and throat.
As most parents know, earaches are common, irritating, and painful for children. An earache can have various causes but is most likely caused by an ear infection.
What are the symptoms to look for?
Signs your child’s ear might have an infection include:
- Irritability
- Crying
- Pulling on his/her ear
- Lying on one side
- Redness
What Causes Ear Infections?
It’s important to remember that all middle ear infections (commonly just called ear infections) are viral infections. These infections are actually in the eustachian tube, which connects your throat to your ear. These tubes are quite short in children, especially young children, which is why ear infections are so common for our little ones; they are caused by fluid build-up in the middle ear. If you recall from your high school biology days, there is a tympanic membrane (i.e., eardrum) blocking any external factors from entering the middle ear; so the fluid is not from pools or baths (although these can cause other infections). The fluid accumulates due to immune responses, which is why these are commonly seen during a cold or flu infection.
Recurring Ear Pain
Ear infections are not only common but can happen frequently and become chronic. Chronic ear infections easily develop in children with atopic diseases (e.g., eczema, asthma, and seasonal allergies) because these diseases are immune-mediated. Environmental factors, such as exposure to second-hand smoke and food sensitivities, can contribute to chronic ear infections as well because they also produce an immune response.
Modern Treatment for Ear Infections
Typical treatment of an ear infection includes the use of antibiotics; however, antibiotics don't work on viral infections, and the overuse of antibiotics can cause bacterial and antibiotic resistance, which is a growing problem. Guidelines for the treatment of ear infections suggests doctors delay antibiotic use for two to three days and watch for improvement. If there is no improvement, antibiotics are suggested. Regardless, it’s important to get a proper assessment done by your health care practitioner at the first sign of infection. Don’t wait!
Although most ear aches resolve themselves without complication, sometimes they can progress into a more severe infection or be a symptom of a more serious condition.
If you notice any of the following regarding your child’s earache, please take them to their primary care practitioner or urgent care:
- High fever of >38.9°C (or any fever for children under 3 months old, which is >37.9°C)
- Lethargy
- Severe pain
- Pus or bloody fluid coming out of the ear
- Dizziness
- Your child is under 6 months old
- The infection is present in both ears
- It is associated with a rash
- It is associated with a headache or neck pain
As mentioned earlier, some ear infections can resolve on their own within a few days by using the “watch and wait” method—this is also a way to decrease antibiotic use. However, with acute infections, there are many naturopathic interventions that can speed up healing and prevent them from progressing to more severe infections.
Naturopathic Treatment for Acute Earaches
You have multiple naturopathic options for treating acute ear infections. Usually, a combination of these works best. Please always consult a naturopathic doctor or a trained health care practitioner before starting any treatment.
Lifestyle
A surprisingly effective treatment for acute infections is onion ear muffs. This includes gently warming half an onion and holding it over your child’s ears. It sounds silly, but onions are full of anti-microbial properties that decrease inflammation.
Diet
Decrease your child’s sugar, dairy, and egg intake. Although sugar does not cause ear infections, it can weaken his or her immune system, and so it’s best to avoid sugary foods during an active infection. Dairy and eggs are common allergens and can increase inflammation in the ear canal, so it’s best to avoid these during active infections too.
Supplements
Ear oils that are used to treat ear infections are typically made from herbs that help with pain relief and have antibacterial properties. It’s important to remember not to put anything into the ear canal until it has been assessed to ensure there is no perforation in the eardrum. You don’t want the oil to get behind the eardrum.
Homeopathic
Children typically respond well to homeopathic treatments. A health care practitioner who is experienced in prescribing these will be able to assess your child’s specific experience and treat him/her accordingly. Some examples of homeopathic remedies often used for earaches/ear infections are belladonna, chamomilla, and pulsatilla.
Naturopathic Treatment for Chronic Ear Infections
Naturopathic treatment becomes really important when treating chronic ear infections. These types of infections have an underlying cause which needs to be identified and treated.
Diet
Breastfeed, if possible. Babies who are exclusively breastfed are less likely to develop ear infections. Just like acute treatment, decreasing sugar will be helpful for the prevention of this chronic condition. Research also shows that children with food allergies are more likely to have frequent ear infections. Remember, your child may have a food allergy even without showing obvious signs, such as rashes, hives, and anaphylactic reactions.
Lifestyle
Pacifier use can lead to ear infections due to the effect the continuous sucking motion has on the eustachian tubes, so ditch it. Also, don’t let your baby drink lying down. Drinking in this position can allow liquid to get into the eustachian tubes, thereby increasing the risk of developing an ear infection. Environmental toxins and allergens can contribute as well, just like food allergies. It’s well demonstrated that exposure to tobacco smoke can cause this chronic condition too!
Zinc Supplements for Children
Zinc can be particularly helpful if the underlying cause of the ear infection is due to their bodies fighting off frequent colds and flues. Recently, a number of new reports have suggested that oral zinc supplementation may be effective in the management of tinnitus. Since zinc has a role in cochlear physiology and in the synapses of the auditory system, there is a plausible mechanism of action for this treatment. Additionally, this mineral helps to keep the immune system strong and is essential for wound healing.
Children on Probiotics Contract Fewer Ear Infections
Studies show that children who use probiotics regularly, are 30 percent less likely to get an ear infection. But tread carefully as the type of probiotic matters. Ensure you receive guidance on which probiotics to consume. Omega-3 fish oils decrease inflammation, while cod liver oil contains vitamins A and D, which are important for immune functions.
Earaches can be painful and irritating to our little ones, and hard for parents. Always get an assessment from a trusted health care provider who can look into your child’s ear issues. Remember, don’t be afraid to ask questions, and ask for alternative treatments!
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