Ear infections are a common condition in babies. 1/3 of babies have an ear infection before they reach the age of one. The rate of ear infections in children increases with age. At least half of children who reach the age of three experience this condition once or several times.
Why are ear infections common in babies?
The answer to this question depends on the fact that the ear canal is not fully developed in babies. The Eustachian tube, which connects the external ear canal to the middle ear, is narrow and short in babies. This causes infection-causing bacteria to easily reach the middle ear. In addition, the fluid created by the infection easily accumulates in the middle ear of babies, and this negatively affects the response to treatment.
Another reason is the underdeveloped immune system in babies. This situation causes the infection to occur easily.
What are the symptoms of common ear infection in babies?
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Sick babies try to rub their ears on the bed. As babies grow, this can also be seen as ear pulling.
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The baby is restless. Crying spells occur and especially when the baby is put to bed, the crying spells increase.
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Vomiting, Diarrhea
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Fever
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Loss of appetite
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Fluid coming out of the ear
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Difficulty in sleeping and hearing may be observed.
How should middle ear infections in babies be treated?
Treatment varies depending on the type and severity of the ear infection.
The patient should be monitored. Treatment should be planned according to the patient's complaints.
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Antipyretics and painkillers should be given according to the babies' pain and fever complaints.
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Keeping the nasal passage open. It is important.
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Medication can be started in cases where treatment is required.
How to protect babies from middle ear infections should it be?
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When feeding the baby, attention should be paid to feeding at a temperature of 30 degrees Celsius.
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Feeding with breast milk is important.
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Smoking Harmful environments should be avoided
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Hygiene rules should be followed
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Pneumococcal vaccines should be administered regularly during infancy.
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