Detecting ear infections in children

School-going children are prone to ear infections where they are exposed to bacteria and viruses, writes JOHN MUTURI

About 90 per cent of children suffer at least one ear infection in their life. The main causes are middle ear infections (acute otitis media) and glue ear.

Acute middle ear infections often occur after a child mixes with others in school, which increases their exposure to bacteria and viruses. They also often follow a sore throat or a cold as the cold viruses in the throat travel up the tube connecting the ear to the back of the nose.

In this type of infection, the middle ear membrane becomes inflamed and secretes fluid. In case of infection, a young child will poke or pull at her ear while an older one will complain of pain if she has an infection. There may also be discharge from the ears, high temperature and some loss of hearing. If the infection deteriorates, it may lead to a perforated or burst eardrum.

The doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics. Some studies indicate bacteria are evolving resistance to antibiotics hence majority of doctors are reluctant to use the drugs. Antibiotics can cause side effects such as gut problems and allergic reactions. Painkillers, such as Calpol (for babies over three months old), relieve the pain and the child will usually get better on her own within a few days.

Glue ear

Glue ear occurs when fluid collects in the middle ear space of one or both ears. This often happens after a cold or an infection in the throat or ear. The fluid stops the eardrum moving freely hence can cause a hearing problem.

In case of a sign of fluid in the ear, or your child has had repeated bouts of glue ear, you’ll be referred to an ear, nose and throat specialist. A hearing test and examination on how well the eardrum is moving will be done. For about half the children, glue ear clears up by itself within three months. Almost all children will have outgrown glue ear by ten.

However, your child may need a minor operation, in which a miniature tube, known as a grommet or ventilation tube, is inserted. Grommets correct the hearing problem as the child naturally gets better.

Grommets improve hearing immediately and usually stay in place for between six months and a year. When they fall out, the small hole in the eardrum should heal quickly.

When it’s glue ear

•     Your child may appear inattentive or prone to daydreaming. She may seem to hear only when she wants to.

•     She may turn up the TV or say ‘pardon?’ ‘Eh?’ or ‘What?’ more than usual.

•     She may talk too loudly or talk less. She may start mispronouncing words or speak less clearly than normal.

•     She may become quiet and withdrawn as a result of her hearing difficulties.

•     She may have difficulty concentrating and be particularly irritable and tired by the end of the day.

•     She may become overactive or have temper tantrums, especially when she’s tired.

•     She may become unsettled at school and feel left out of some activities.