How To Relieve A Baby’s Ear Infection

Baby ear infection, or acute otitis media, is a common condition in infants and children. About half of babies have at least one ear infection during the first year of life. It is the most common cause, followed by tonsillitis, for which young children are treated with antibiotics.

As with colds and throat infections, winter is the time of year when this condition occurs most often. It should also be noted that children with allergy problems and who live in a family environment of smokers are more likely to suffer from this condition.

How is the baby’s ear infection?

Otitis media is caused by the entry of bacteria or viruses from the oral and nasal cavities into the air space of the middle ear. The abnormal multiplication of microorganisms in this area generates pus and distension of the eardrum, causing the child’s pain.

Otitis is more common when a catarrhal process occurs, as the duct fills with mucus and creates favorable conditions for the overgrowth of viruses and bacteria.

Baby’s Ear Infection Symptoms

Symptoms depend on age. In the case of babies, they  usually include irritability, rejection of the bottle due to loss of appetite, vomiting and even discharge in the external ear in more advanced infections. Pain increases when sleeping because pressure in the ear is greater in the horizontal position. There may also be fever and chills.

It is important to recognize symptoms in the early stages of the condition in order to apply the appropriate treatment as soon as possible. This way, recovery will be faster and complications will be avoided.

Home Remedies for Baby’s Ear Infection

It is very important that you do not make a diagnosis yourself, but that you see a doctor when you suspect an infection. These medications are complementary to the treatment prescribed by the doctor and should never replace it. Furthermore, they are only indicated to relieve pain and inflammation.

1. Application of natural oils or plant infusion

and chamomile, may have analgesic, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects . The procedure consists of preparing an infusion, soaking a sterile gauze in it and applying it to the baby’s ear.

You can also apply a few drops of natural oil, such as olive oil or almond oil, to soothe the pain and itching of the middle ear.

2. Applying hot compresses

A compress soaked in warm water can be applied to the outer surface of the baby’s ear. If you don’t have sterile gauze, use a microwave-safe seed bag for a few seconds. This can promote circulation to the area and relieve discomfort caused by the infection.

3. Eucalyptus vapor inhalation

Inhalation can be effective in relieving otitis media pain. Add a few eucalyptus or mint leaves to a container of boiling water, place a towel over the baby’s head and try to get him to inhale the vapors. Repeat two or three times a day. It is important to check that the steam is not too hot to avoid burns.

4. Application of teas with antibacterial effect

You can make garlic or onion infusions and apply a few drops to your baby’s ear. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add an onion or garlic clove to it. Strain the resulting liquid to ensure no solid particles remain and continue applying.

Finally, we remind you that these remedies with anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe the pain in little ones. However,  always follow the pediatrician’s medical recommendations and properly apply prescribed antibiotics.