Understanding Ear Pain in Children
When your child is suffering from ear pain, it can be difficult to determine whether you should have the child seen or not. Not all ear pain will need to be evaluated by a doctor. Our triage nurse will gladly help you evaluate your child’s condition based on a few variables. Here are some tips to help your child be more comfortable until our nurse is available or until your appointment time.
If your child has ear pain with cold symptoms:
Ear pain can be a distressing symptom for both children and parents. While over-the-counter medications like Tylenol and Ibuprofen can provide relief, it’s essential to know when to seek medical attention. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be given every 4-6 hours, or if the child is 6 months or older ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) can be given every 6 hours. If the pain is not controlled by medicine, he/she is acting very ill, has a high fever, or is less than 6 months old, the child should be seen that day.
In children 6 months of age or older, 4 out of 5 ear infections will resolve without antibiotics. The current recommendation is that ear infections should be treated initially with pain-relieving medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Antibiotics should be used if the pain persists for more than 48 hours. The main reason to avoid antibiotic usage is to decrease antibiotic resistance by bacteria. Antibiotic resistance will make treating all types of infections more difficult in the future.
Ear pain with no cold symptoms:
If your child develops ear pain after an episode of swimming and the pain increases when the outer part of the ear is moved, the pain could be related to Otitis Externa, also known as Swimmer’s Ear. This condition is not harmful but can be quite painful. Water trapped in the ear leads to inflammation and increased growth of germs in the ear canal. If you believe this is the case, please give child acetaminophen or ibuprofen and call our office during office hours. The triage nurse will be able to help you assess the situation and determine if the child will require prescription ear drops.
Treating Ear Pain with Over-the-Counter Medications
Both Tylenol and Ibuprofen can be effective in managing ear pain. However, there are some key differences to consider:
-
Tylenol:
- Suitable for all ages, including infants.
- Works by reducing fever and pain.
- Should not be given in excessive doses, as it can cause liver damage.
-
Ibuprofen:
- Suitable for children 6 months or older.
- Works by reducing inflammation and pain.
- May be more effective for reducing ear pain caused by inflammation.
When to See a Doctor:
It’s important to consult a pediatrician if your child’s ear pain:
- Persists for more than 48 hours despite treatment with over-the-counter medications.
- Is accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
- High fever
- Drainage from the ear (clear, yellow, or green)
- Difficulty hearing
- Facial swelling
- Severe pain
- Is caused by a known infection, such as a cold, flu, or sinus infection.
- Is severe or persistent.
- Is associated with any trauma to the ear.
Additional Considerations:
- Ear Infections: If your child has a recurrent ear infection, your doctor may recommend antibiotics.
- Swimmer’s Ear: If your child has ear pain after swimming, it could be due to swimmer’s ear. A doctor can prescribe ear drops to treat this condition.
- Other Underlying Conditions: Certain underlying health conditions, such as allergies or sinus problems, can contribute to ear pain.
If an ear infection is suspected and the pain is not controlled by a pain reliever for longer than 48 hours, please call our office to schedule an appointment with one of our pediatricians.
Remember: While over-the-counter medications can provide relief for ear pain, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or if your child’s symptoms worsen.
Discover More Must-Read Pediatric Tips and Advice
At Monadnock Community Hospital, we are committed to supporting you and your family with reliable information and expert advice. Be sure to check out our other pediatric blog posts for more tips on keeping your child healthy and happy. From newborn care to managing common childhood illnesses, our blog offers a wealth of knowledge to help you navigate the joys and challenges of parenthood.
Why Choose Monadnock Community Hospital’s Pediatrics Department?
Your child’s health is our top priority at Monadnock Regional Pediatrics. From birth through adolescence, our expert team of board-certified pediatricians and nurses provides compassionate, personalized care. We partner with families to create tailored health plans that foster a healthy, happy future. Serving the community since 1923, we’re committed to delivering high-quality, accessible care in a warm and nurturing environment. Trust us to support your child’s well-being every step of the way.
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