Ear tubes help some children who have frequent ear infections
Children get sick more often than adults because their immune systems aren’t fully developed. Ear infections are one of the most common reasons parents bring kids to see our Plano pediatricians. Most of the time, parents just need to give their children over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, and see if the infection clears up in a few days. Sometimes, the child needs antibiotics. When a child has frequent infections or hearing problems, our physicians may recommend ear tubes to help with the fluid in their ears.
Why do kids get fluid in their ears?
Children have narrower, shorter eustachian tubes than adults. Their tubes are more horizontal, making it easier for fluid to accumulate. Sometimes, viruses and bacteria cause fluid build-up, but other times, fluid accumulates when there is no infection.
Kids need to have clear, unclogged eustachian tubes to maintain normal air pressure and to allow fluid to drain from their middle ear. If there is chronic inflammation, it can tear the child’s ear drum. Middle ear problems can be painful and affect a child’s hearing. Hearing problems can affect their ability to learn, their speech and their communication skills.
The benefits and risks of ear tubes
Parents need to understand the benefits and risks of ear tubes and surgery. Here are the benefits our Plano pediatricians want parents to consider.
- Improves hearing problems as well as problems with speech development
- Helps kids with balance problems
- Reduces the need for oral antibiotics
- Lowers the risk of recurrent infections
- Can improve behavioral and communication problems, as well as sleep issues
Ear tube surgery is very common and very low risk, but there are always some risks with surgical procedures. These include problems with general anesthesia, infection and bleeding. Sometimes, tubes fall out or become clogged, and sometimes, surgeons need to remove the tubes.
What to expect when a child has surgery
Typically, children require general anesthesia, and the surgery takes about 15 minutes. After surgeons place the ear tubes, children stay in recovery for a few hours before they go home. They need to rest the day of surgery. They may feel tired, grumpy and nauseous that day.
Most of the time, kids can get back to their day-to-day routines in 24 to 48 hours. In most cases, children have a follow-up appointment in two to four weeks. If the child has discharge that is brown, yellow or bloody that lasts longer than a week, or if they feel long-term pain or have trouble hearing or getting their balance, parents should contact their surgeon.
Our Plano pediatricians help parents and kids cope with ear infections and other problems
Ear infections are a normal part of childhood, but sometimes they become a bigger problem. Our pediatricians can help parents decide whether ear tubes are a good solution for their children. Contact us for an appointment.
