Preventing & Treating Ear Infections

Ear infections are a group of unpleasant conditions that hinder the ear's ability to function. They're most often bacterial and affect children more than adults. The best way to deal with ear infections is to prevent them. That's why at Tri-valley Pediatrics of Pleasanton and San Ramon, CA, we like to educate our patients and their parents on the best ways to treat and prevent ear infections.

Causes of Ear Infections

An ear infection is either bacterial or viral. According to the CDC, a bacterial ear infection is the result of bacteria related to the ones that cause pneumonia and influenza. Viral ear infections come from viruses, such as the one that causes the cold. They can usually be identified by symptoms like itching, pain, fever, and difficulty sleeping.

Preventing Ear Infections

You can help your child avoid the contaminants that cause an ear infection in several ways. The most important is frequent handwashing. Encourage your child to wash their hands thoroughly and often and to avoid touching their face. Receiving the proper vaccines and avoiding exposure to sick people is also key. Exposure to smoke may also increase the likelihood of infection.

Ear Infection Treatments

If your child is showing severe signs of an ear infection, it's best to bring them to the doctor quickly. Infections that last longer than 2-3 days risk causing lasting damage. A doctor will generally provide antibiotics for infections that aren't going away on their own. At home, it may be helpful for the child to have extra water and rest, as well as pain relievers like ibuprofen for pain and fever. If you're worried about an ear infection, feel free to reach out to Tripreaks Pediatrics of Pleasanton, CA, and San Ramon, CA, for advice.

Contact Us Today

If an infection gets too severe, don't try to treat it at home, as it could cause serious issues. Just come visit one of our friendly doctors here at Tri-valley Pediatrics, and they will be happy to set you on the right track. Just call the closest office to you or schedule online here if it's more convenient. You can reach our Pleasanton, CA, office at (925) 460-8444 and our San Ramon, CA, office at (925) 380-6230. We're here to help.