Pediatric Ear Infections Treatment Clinic in Kirkland, WA

Pediatric ear infections, also known as otitis media, are a common condition that affects many children and can cause discomfort and pain.

Upon suspecting an ear infection, our pediatricians use an otoscope to examine your child’s ear. This instrument allows us to visualize the ear canal and eardrum and determine the severity of the infection.

If your child has a middle ear infection, our pediatricians may recommend antibiotics such as Amoxicillin, penicillin, or cephalosporins, depending on your child’s medical history and allergy profile. We typically prescribe antibiotics for severe infections or for children under two years old.

In addition to prescription treatment, over-the-counter pain relievers may be suggested to reduce pain and inflammation. Our skilled physicians will also provide advice on using warm compresses or heating pads on the affected ear for temporary relief. Decongestants and mucolytics, such as guaifenesin, can also be recommended to improve drainage from the middle ear.

Not all ear infections require immediate antibiotic treatment. If the infection is mild, our pediatricians may suggest a wait-and-see approach, also known as observation. During this period, we will schedule regular follow-up visits to monitor the infection’s progress.

For children who experience chronic or recurrent ear infections, our pediatricians may refer your child to an otolaryngologist, a specialist in ear, nose, and throat conditions, who might recommend a procedure to insert ear tubes. These small cylinders are placed through the eardrum to allow air into the middle ear, helping to prevent the accumulation of fluid behind the eardrum and reducing the risk of future infections.

Ear infections, whether viral or bacterial, often present similar symptoms such as ear pain, difficulty hearing, fluid drainage from the ear, and drowsiness. However, there are subtle differences that can help distinguish between the two.

Viral Ear Infections:

● Gradual onset of symptoms
● Mild to moderate earache that can fluctuate in intensity
● Symptoms such as a stuffy or runny nose, cough, and a sore throat usually develop before the ear pain
● Low-grade fever (may be absent)
● Symptoms typically resolve within 2-3 days

Bacterial Ear Infections:

● Sudden onset of severe and constant ear pain
● High fever (over 101°F)
● Pus or fluid draining from the ear which may be due to a rupture in the eardrum caused by the infection
● Hearing loss or impaired hearing
● Increased irritability, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping in infants and toddlers
● Symptoms often persist for longer periods

At Evergreen Pediatrics, our experienced healthcare providers are equipped to differentiate between viral and bacterial ear infections through careful examination and testing. A definitive diagnosis can only be made by a healthcare provider who can examine the ear and possibly take a sample of any fluid for testing.

If you suspect your child has an ear infection, it’s important to seek medical help right away. Both viral and bacterial infections can potentially lead to serious complications if left untreated. We can accurately diagnose the infection and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

While preventing ear infections can be challenging, there are several measures that you can take to reduce the risk:

● Wash your child’s hands frequently.
● Keep your child away from individuals with infectious illnesses.
● Keep your kids away from secondhand smoking.
● Breastfeed your child if possible.
● Vaccinate your child against the flu and pneumococcal bacteria.

If your child shows signs of an ear infection, such as persistent ear pain or increased fussiness, it may be necessary to consult one of our expert pediatricians. Other symptoms to watch for include difficulty sleeping, fever over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius), or thick, yellow, or bloody discharge from the ear.

It’s important to remember that infants under 6 months displaying signs or symptoms of an ear infection should be brought in for a consultation immediately. It can be more difficult to identify ear infections in infants and they are at a higher risk of complications.

Ear infections are a common occurrence in children and often resolve on their own. However, it’s essential to know that when left untreated, these infections can lead to severe complications that may have lasting effects on your child’s hearing, health, and development.

The most common consequence of untreated ear infections is damage to the middle ear. The infection can cause scarring and thickening of the eardrum, leading to impaired hearing. In severe cases, the eardrum may rupture, allowing fluid and bacteria to leak out of the ear, and damaging the eardrum and the small bones inside the ear, impairing the ability to hear.

Untreated ear infections can interfere with children’s ability to hear and process speech sounds. This can delay their speech and language development, affecting their cognitive and social skills. Children with untreated ear infections may have difficulty communicating, forming relationships, and participating in educational activities. They may also have trouble with balance, as our ears help us maintain balance.

Studies have shown that children with recurrent ear infections are at an increased risk of cognitive impairment. Our team at Evergreen Pediatrics is aware that the chronic inflammation and hearing loss associated with untreated infections can affect brain development and function, leading to difficulties with memory, attention, and problem-solving.

Lastly, untreated ear infections can result in an abscess, a pocket of pus, in the ear. This can be very painful and can cause further complications if it ruptures.

While ear infections may seem trivial, they can lead to serious health complications if not addressed promptly. At Evergreen Pediatrics, our skilled team can provide early medication to effectively clear the infection and reduce the risk of long-term problems, ensuring your child’s health and well-being. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Kirkland WA, Seattle WA, Shoreline WA, Lake Forest Park WA, Kenmore WA, Woodinville WA, Mountlake Terrace WA, Woodway WA, Edmonds WA, Lynnwood WA, Bothell WA and Lake Washington WA.