Ear infections cause 22 million Americans to visit their doctors each year, mostly young children, according to statistics published by The Hearing Review. In fact, it is one of the most common reasons why parents bring their young children to see the doctor. Know the symptoms of an ear infection so that you can have it examined and treated by an ENT doctor at West Coast Ear, Nose and Throat in Simi Valley, Camarillo, Ventura County and Thousand Oaks, CA as soon as possible.

Is It an Ear Infection?
An ear infection is an irritation of the middle ear caused by bad bacteria or fungus. Its formal name is otitis media with effusion or OME. According to the Journal of Infection Diseases, five out of six children have an ear infection before the age of three. This condition is most common in young children because their ears haven't had a chance to fully form and their immune systems may not be strong enough. These are some signs of a possible ear infection:

- Pain and headaches.
- Fever (over 100°F).
- A recent or persistent head cold.
- Unexplained crying in babies and toddlers.
- Pus-like fluid coming out of the ear.
- Trouble hearing at normal volumes.
- Loss of appetite.
- Inability to sleep soundly.

What Causes Ear Infections?
Ear infections are often caused by fluid that gets trapped in the ear after a respiratory ailment, like a cold. They are sometimes caused by exposure to an environment that is full of bacteria, like a public pool. An infection may also develop from a foreign substance or object that’s stuck in the ear. It’s important to note that untreated ear infections could lead to hearing loss, which is why it’s best to play it safe and see your Simi Valley, Camarillo, Ventura County and Thousand Oaks, CA ENT doctor if there are any concerning symptoms.

Treating an Ear Infection
Antibiotic therapy is the common solution for an ear infection that is caused by bacteria. If it is a fungal infection, antifungal medication will likely be prescribed. There are cases where your Simi Valley, Camarillo, Ventura County and Thousand Oaks, CA ENT may choose to let some time pass to see if the infection goes away on its own. If there is something in the ear that is causing the symptoms, it will be safely removed by your doctor.

See an ENT for Treatment
If you believe your child may have an ear infection, seek treatment from an ENT doctor at West Coast Ear, Nose and Throat in Simi Valley, Camarillo, Ventura County and Thousand Oaks, CA. Call (805) 379-9646 today to set a convenient time for a visit.