Dr Trương Hoàng Quý*

Ear infections in children, medically known as otitis media, are very common in young children, especially those under six years of age. Fortunately, most cases resolve quickly and are not usually serious.

Several factors contribute to ear infections in children, including immature anatomy, physiology, genetic predisposition and living environment. The Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the throat, are smaller and more horizontal in infants and young children. This makes fluid drainage less effective and increases the risk of infection.

Risk factors for ear infections in children

Other factors associated with ear infections in children include:

• Age: most common between 6-18 months and preschool age

• Some studies suggest that the risk of acute ear infections in children is associated with family history

• Attendance at daycare, where infections spread more easily

• Lack of breastfeeding

• Exposure to tobacco smoke or air pollution

• Higher occurrence during fall and winter months

1. Symptoms of ear infections in children

Common symptoms of ear infections in children include:

• Ear pain is a common symptom of ear infections in children and often becomes worse when the child lies down. In younger children, signs may include irritability, disturbed sleep, frequent waking at night, or repeatedly touching or pulling at their ears. Older children may complain of hearing loss or ringing in the ears (tinnitus).

• Children with ear infections in children often have accompanying upper respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough, and a runny nose.

• Other possible symptoms include poor feeding, vomiting, or diarrhoea.

Ear infections in children are diagnosed when a doctor examines the ear and observes inflammation of the eardrum (tympanic membrane).

 

What you can do at home

• Pain control: Use medication for pain, such as giving Ibuprofen or acetaminophen to treat pain

• Ear drops medication for pain, such as benzocaine or lidocaine preparation, may be used for children above 2 years of age

• Symptom treatment medication should be used if the child has a cough or a runny nose

• Avoid swimming until the symptoms resolved

When to see a doctor

Although many ear infections in children are caused by viral infections and may improve within 2-3 days, medical attention is recommended if:

• The child is under 6 months of age

• Symptoms do not improve after 48 hours in children over 2 years old

• The child has a weakened immune system

• There is swelling, redness, or pain behind the ear (possible complications such as eardrum perforation or mastoiditis)

• Parents have any concerns about their child’s condition

Prevention for otitis media

To reduce the risk of ear infections in children, parents can:

• Ensure children receive all routine vaccinations, especially pneumococcal conjugate (PCV) and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccines

• Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke and air pollution

• Treat upper respiratory infections promptly and maintain good nasal hygiene 

Ear infections are a common part of childhood and, in most cases, can be managed safely with appropriate care and monitoring. Understanding the symptoms, knowing when home care is sufficient and recognising when to seek medical advice can help parents feel more confident. If there is any uncertainty, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended. — Family Medical Practice

*Dr Trương Hoàng Quý is a paediatrician at Family Medical Practice in HCM City. He holds a medical degree from Hà Nội Medical University and a Master of Public Health Nutrition from Queensland University of Technology. He has experience managing a wide range of paediatric conditions, from routine care to more complex nutritional and developmental issues. Families value his careful and attentive approach to child healthcare.