If your child is suffering from an ear infection, the team at the Child & Adolescent Clinic of Longview and Vancouver, WA can help bring them relief.
Tips for Preventing Ear Infections in Children
Ear infections aren’t just an issue in children, but they do tend to occur more often in babies and young children. This is thought to be simply because they are often exposed to more bacteria and germs, which affect the middle ear, and because they are not yet immune to them.
Regardless of the cause, it can be tough to watch your child deal with so much pain. The team at the Child & Adolescent Clinic in Longview and Vancouver, WA share tips below to help reduce the chances of an ear infection in your little one.
Breastfeeding Is a Natural Defense
If your child is still a baby, breastfeeding can go a long way in preventing many illnesses and issues, including ear infections. Moms pass along antibodies through their breast milk, which help strengthen their baby’s immunity.
Feed Them Upright
If you bottle feed your baby, be sure that they are upright when they eat. Otherwise, fluid can flow into their Eustachian tubes and lead to ear pain.
Keep Them Vaccinated
Vaccinations play a vital role in immunity. They introduce a dead or weakened strain of the virus that they are protecting your child from. The body then goes to work developing immunity against it. By ensuring your children receive their recommended vaccinations, you are significantly decreasing the likelihood of them developing various illnesses and diseases.
Make Hygiene a Priority
Keep germs at bay by washing your hands and your baby’s hands regularly. When your child is old enough, teach them how to wash well and be sure they know to do it throughout the day.
Try to Avoid Others Who Are Sick
Ear infections are not contagious, but the viruses that can lead to an infection are. Whenever possible, keep your child away from people who are sick.
Keep Them Away From Smoke
Smoky environments have been linked to respiratory issues and ear infections in children. If you smoke, take it outside to protect your little one.
Despite your efforts and carefully following the tips above, there is always a chance of your child developing an ear infection. If this occurs or if they seem to have a consistent earache, visit our team at the Child & Adolescent Clinic. You can reach our Longview, WA office at (360) 577-1771 or our Vancouver, WA office at (360) 254-7750.