Particularly common in childhood are otitis, i.e. inflammations in the ear that are often accompanied by pain or fever, sensitivity and nasal congestion or runny nose.
The usual treatment in these cases includes antibiotics, which for most children is the inevitable solution, since many of them end up receiving antibiotic treatment more than 5 times a year for these kinds of problems.
But what are the factors that lead to the appearance or development of inflammation in the ear and finally to otitis?
- Anatomy of the ear
The Eustachian tube is a tube that connects the middle ear, the nose and the pharynx. In children this tube has a horizontal position, it is narrower and shorter than in adults. This makes it difficult for fluids to drain properly from the middle ear since both nasal secretions and feeding in a horizontal position (taking milk in a horizontal position) are often driven into it, increasing the chances of inflammation.
- Insufficient development of the Immune System
Children’s immune systems are not fully developed, which makes them more vulnerable to bacterial and viral infections. Often viral upper respiratory infections block the Eustachian tube, leading to otitis media.
- Environmental factors
Children are usually in environments where viral infections circulate (such as nurseries and schools).
Also, exposure to allergens (food or respiratory) or irritants (passive smoking) are factors that lead to an increase in secretions as well as swelling of the Eustachian tube which blocks and traps the secretions in the middle ear.
Prevention of otitis in children
- Immune enhancement
-Encourage children to consume foods rich in vitamin C to boost immunity.
-breastfeed your child – if possible – for the first 6 months of life in order to provide antibodies through breast milk
– Let your child sleep, good sleep helps the immune system function well
- Prevention of infections
– Good hand hygiene
-Vaccination (mainly recommended pneumococcal and flu vaccines)
- Cleaning the nose
Teach the child to do daily nasal rinses with saline to keep the nose clean
- Correct feeding position
Keep the infant in an upright position when nursing or using a bottle to prevent fluids from moving into the middle ear
- Avoid Overcrowding
Limiting the exposure of children to closed spaces, especially during the peak of infections
* Dr. Georgia A. Katsouli is Assistant University Professor, ENT Head and Neck Surgeon.
Clinic: Mesogeion 5, Agia Varvara
Phone: 2130485366