Raleigh Children and Adolescents Medicine is here for you with a skilled team of dedicated pediatricians in Raleigh, NC. If your child has an ear infection they're probably extra fussy but we can help! Turn to us for all your pediatric needs and for treating ear infections in children.

What is an ear infection?

Ear infections can happen to anyone, but are more common in children because their Eustachian tubes aren't fully developed. Eustachian tubes connect the middle ear with the cavity behind the nose and mouth, called the pharynx. When they aren't fully developed it's easier for a common cold to block up these tubes and cause a painful ear infection. If your child often has colds or is exposed to secondhand smoke, they may be even more likely to get an ear infection.

Babies and toddlers can't definitively tell you they're having ear pain, so look out for these symptoms:

• Tugging or pulling at the ear
• Drainage coming from the ear
• Increased irritability or crying more often
• Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep
• Increased fussiness or clinginess

Treating ear infections

When your child has symptoms of an ear infection you should see your pediatrician in Raliegh, NC. Treating an ear infection can start at home to ease your symptoms if you're in pain. Applying a warm compress to the ear can provide some comfort. Talk to your doctor about which over-the-counter medications they recommend for pain and follow the dosage guide for your child.

If you or your child continue to have frequent or recurring ear infections, you may want to see an ENT doctor and find out if something else is contributing to frequent infections. The team of pediatricians at Raleigh Children and Adolescents Medicine is here to help when your child is suffering from an ear infection. Contact us for an appointment with your pediatrician in Raleigh, NC, at (919) 781-7490.