Double Ear Infection, Ohhh.

Our 18month old was extra clingy, whiny, and wouldn't sleep well at night. She didn't want much to eat, and was happiest if we just held her. This was totally out of character for our independent little sister.

She was a little warm, but wouldn't let me take her temp in her ear. Her behavior was the main reason we suspected that something wasn't right. I took her in (which I've learned that the first appointment right after lunchtime, is the golden time to see a pediatrician. That slot is rarely behind schedule...) and he peeked down her throat, felt her glands and looked in both ears.

Double Ear Infection. Bingo.

So..what happens with the Classic Acute (not repeating) Ear Infection {Otitis Media} is this:

Usually after a runny-nose-type cold or allergies, a baby/child is susceptible to ear infections. The ear canal connects directly to the throat, and if it is clogged with mucus, the fluids won't drain like it usually does. The fluids builds up behind the Eardrum, and can create an infection.

Ear Infections can sometimes heal themselves, but usually are treated with an antibiotic. Our 18month old was prescribed one that was a syrup, that had to be kept in the fridge. It was Amoxicillin, which I am allergic to myslef, but apparently med-type allergies are rarely passed onto the child. Also Interesting.

We could also give her oral Tylenol for the Pain. (See previous post for Pain-Meds Info)

Not much you can do to prevent Ear Infections. They are not from the water or the outdoors, and are not contagious. If you can prevent colds through good hand washing and decrease contact with public places, you will help a lot. Supposedly babies who lay on their backs with bottles and pacies are more at risk. Whatcha gonna do.