Middle Ear Infections and Ear Tubes
Middle ear infections are caused by bacteria or a virus that infects fluid that has builds up in the middle ear. These infections often happen when a child has a cold, allergy or upper respiratory illness. Ear infections can be painful and cause difficulty sleeping or hearing. Unfortunately, they also are one of the most common infections for children.
What are ear tubes?
Ear tubes are tiny, hollow cylinders made of soft plastic. They are placed in the eardrums and allow air to circulate between the outer and middle ear.
Are ear tubes common in children?
Myringotomy, the procedure to insert ear tubes, is the most common surgical procedure performed on children. Because the eustachian tubes in children aren't as developed, they can become inflamed or irritated more easily. This leads to ear infections. Ear tubes can help relieve the pressure that builds up during an infection or altogether prevent infection.
While the procedure is more common in children, inserting ear tubes also can help adults who experience recurring ear infections.
How do I know if my child needs ear tubes?
Ear tubes likely will help kids who have chronic ear infections. This means those who have had at least three ear infections within six months or four infections within one year, all with persistent middle ear fluid. If a child has had fluid buildup in the ears for at least three months, the health care team may recommend a hearing test to show if a child has a loss of hearing
For adults, the most common symptoms that may improve with ear tubes are muffled hearing and ear pressure. These symptoms can cause a sense of imbalance or dizziness — like rocking in a boat — if there is fluid buildup in one ear but not the other. In these cases, placing an ear tube can help the person regain balance.