Take the Ear Infection Quiz
Infections of the middle ear are also called otitis media. They are a common
problem during childhood. Three in 4 children have at least one middle ear infection
by the
time they turn 3. How much do you know about this illness? Take this quiz.
1. An ear infection usually begins with a cold.
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Otitis media
often begins when infections that cause sore throats, colds, or other breathing problems
spread to the middle ear. Babies in particular may have general symptoms when the
infection starts. These symptoms include fever, fussiness, refusal to eat, vomiting,
and
diarrhea.
2. Otitis media is more common in children.
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But this illness
can also affect adults. Children are more likely to get a middle ear infection because
their immune system is still developing. A child's eustachian tubes are shorter and
straighter than in an adult.
3. The ear's eustachian tube is the main part of the ear affected
in otitis media.
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The eustachian
tube is usually closed. But it opens regularly to allow air into the middle ear. This
tube also equalizes air pressure in the middle ear. A eustachian tube that is blocked
by
swelling of its lining or plugged with mucus from a cold or for some other reason
can't
open. The lack of fresh air may allow fluid from the tissue that lines the middle
ear to
collect. If the eustachian tube stays plugged, the fluid can't drain. It begins to
collect in the normally air-filled middle ear.
4. The adenoids may also play a role in otitis media.
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The adenoids in
children are larger than they are in adults. Adenoids are made up mostly of cells
(lymphocytes) that help fight infections. They are at the back of the nose, near the
eustachian tubes. Enlarged adenoids can keep the eustachian tube from opening. Adenoids
may also become infected. This infection may spread into the eustachian tubes.
5. Earache and fever are 2 symptoms of otitis media.
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Children with
otitis media can be in a lot of pain. This can cause them to be more irritable than
normal. They may cry and tug or pull at one or both ears. Other symptoms include trouble
sleeping, loss of balance, and fluid draining from the ear. The child may not respond
to
quiet sounds.
6. Children who live in homes where there is cigarette smoke are
more likely to get otitis media.
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Also, children
who attend daycare are more likely to get the illness. And babies who are given a
bottle
while they lie down are also at risk. Keep your child away from cigarette smoke to
help
prevent otitis media. Other tips include:
- Teach your children when and how to wash their hands.
- Keep your children up to date on their vaccines. This includes getting a flu shot
every year.
- Breastfeed your baby, if possible. Hold your baby while they are drinking from a
bottle.
.
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