April 2025

Ear Infections in Kids: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention Lauren Carei PA-C

Ear infections are a common struggle for many families, especially for young children who seem to get them over and over again. But why does this happen, and what can parents do to help? In this post, Lauren Carei, PA-C, breaks down the causes of frequent ear infections, when treatment is necessary, and practical steps to reduce the risk. Whether you're dealing with your child’s first ear infection or their fifth, understanding the underlying factors can make a big difference in managing and preventing them.

1. Causes of Ear Infections

Inner ear infections are caused by viruses or bacteria that infect fluid in the middle ear.

Swelling or blockage of the Eustachian tube (which connects the middle ear to the back of the nose) prevents fluid from draining properly, making a perfect breeding ground for infections. This can be caused by colds or allergies. Because children have smaller Eustachian tubes, they are more likely to get ear infections.

2. Our Treatment

50-80% of ear infections are caused by viruses and will resolve on their own without antibiotics. They can be treated at home with pain medicine like acetaminophen or ibuprofen and warm compresses for comfort. If a child is having ear pain or fever that lasts more than 2-3 days, discharge from the ear, or is under 6 months, antibiotics may be recommended.

Sometimes providers will send in a prescription for an antibiotic but recommend that patients wait 2-3 days and only start the treatment if their symptoms do not improve or worsen. This approach limits side effects of antibiotics and helps to prevent antibiotic resistance.

3. Prevention

Several things can be done to prevent ear infections including staying up to date on vaccinations like pneumococcal and influenza, practicing good hand washing and staying home when sick to limit the spread of germs, treating seasonal allergies, avoiding smoke exposure, breastfeeding young infants for the first 4-6 months of life, and limiting pacifier use for children older than 6 months.

While ear infections can be frustrating for both kids and parents, understanding their causes, treatment options, and prevention strategies can help manage them more effectively. Most infections clear up on their own, but knowing when to seek medical care is key. By taking steps to reduce risk—like staying up to date on vaccines, managing allergies, and practicing good hygiene—families can help keep ear infections at bay. If your child is struggling with frequent infections, talk to your healthcare provider about the best approach for their care.