Child & Adolescent Clinic is here for your family with a team of pediatricians when your child has an ear infection in Vancouver, or Longview, WA. Ear infections can be very painful, so if you are watching your child struggle, call us for treatment today.

What Causes an Ear Infection?

Ear infections are most common in small children for a few reasons. Children do not have the best hygiene habits and spread germs around easily, but their ears are also not fully developed. As we grow, the ears get better at draining fluids and the immune system strengthens, helping prevent ear infections.

Ears are often infected when your child catches a virus like a cold or flu. The bacteria in the middle ears makes it harder for fluid to drain out efficiently. Fluid builds up and creates pressure behind the eardrum, causing ear pain and aches.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms?

When your child has an ear infection in Vancouver, WA, they may experience:

• Earache
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Stuffy nose

For your youngest family members, it can be hard to tell exactly what is causing them to fuss, but an ear infection is a common culprit. In babies and very young children, notice if they are:

• Crying more than usual
• Taking longer to eat than usual
• Inconsolable
• Tugging at the ears

Some ear infections can clear on their own, but when your child is suffering we can help with treatment. Pediatricians commonly prescribe medication that kills the bacteria causing the infection. We can also provide medicated eardrops to relieve pain. Your child may have symptoms for 2-3 days as the medicine works, and they should take all doses of the medication for 7-10 days.

Ear Infection Treatment Today

Call Child & Adolescent Clinic when you need help with an ear infection in Vancouver or Longview, WA. Our pediatric providers are here for your family with compassionate care. Contact us in Vancouver, WA, at (360) 254-7750, and in Longview, WA at (360) 577-1771.