Parents and guardians are being advised on how to treat their children if they develop a common infection this summer.
According to Kids First Pediatrics, “it seems ear infections are more common in the summer, it’s because they actually do occur at bit more frequently.
“This seems to be a result of the weather, including both humidity and heat, along with increased participation in water sports.”
The HSE has said there is no need for kids to be brought to the GP if they develop symptoms common with an ear infection over the coming months.
In a tweet it said: “Ear infections are very common, particularly in children.
“You do not always need to see a GP for an ear infection. They often get better on their own within three days.
“For information on symptoms, treatment and ways to help avoid ear infections, visit: https://bit.ly/3nL3bAF.”
Some of the most common symptoms to look out for are:
- pain inside the ear
- a high temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or above
- being sick
- a lack of energy
- difficulty hearing
- discharge running out of the ear
- a feeling of pressure or fullness inside the ear
- itching and irritation in and around the ear
- scaly skin in and around the ear
#EarInfections are very common, particularly in children. You do not always need to see a GP for an ear infection. They often get better on their own within 3 days.
For information on symptoms, treatment and ways to help avoid ear infections, visit: https://t.co/3pv8KCWyNf pic.twitter.com/e9h7P3u0Lr
— HSE Ireland (@HSELive) May 10, 2023
In terms of treatment, while there are no vaccines that are effective at preventing the infection, there are easy at-home remedies that can be used.
The HSE advises to use painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, place a warm or cold flannel on the ear and remove any discharge by wiping the ear with cotton wool.
Despite being asked to avoid a trip to the doctor with a simple ear infection, parents are advised that they should attend the GP if any of the following symptoms develop:
- a very high temperature or feel hot and shivery
- an earache that does not start to get better after three days
- swelling around the ear
- fluid coming from the ear
- hearing loss or a change in hearing
- regular ear infections
- other symptoms, such as a server sore throat or dizziness
- a weakened immune system – for example, became of chemotherapy
- a long-term medical condition – diabetes, heart, lung, kidney disease etc
Finally, to help avoid inner ear infections you should make sure your child is up to date with vaccinations, keep your child away from smoky environments, and try not to give your child a dummy after they’re six months old.
To help avoid outer ear infections; do not stick cotton wool buds or your fingers in your ears and use earplugs or a swimming hat over your ears when you swim.
You should also try to avoid water or shampoo getting into your ears when you have a shower or bath and treat conditions that affect your ears, such as eczema or an allergy to hearing aids.
