Recurrent Ear Infections in Children: What Parents Should Know

Ear infections are common in children, but when they occur frequently, they can be a cause for concern. Recurrent ear infections, also known as acute otitis media, can lead to discomfort, hearing loss, and potential long-term issues like speech delays. If your child has more than three ear infections in six months, or four or more in a year, it’s important to seek advice from an ENT consultant.

Ear infections are often triggered by colds or respiratory infections, leading to fluid build-up in the middle ear. Symptoms include ear pain, fever, and irritability. In some cases, fluid may remain behind the eardrum even after the infection clears, leading to glue ear, which can affect hearing.

Treatment usually begins with pain management, and sometimes antibiotics if the infection is bacterial. If ear infections continue to recur, your ENT consultant may recommend further investigation. Options for managing recurrent ear infections include:

Autoinflation
Keeping the ears dry
Xlear children's nasal spray
Longer term antibiotics (prophylactic)
Grommet surgery, where small tubes are inserted into the ear to allow fluid drainage and reduce the risk of future infections.
Adenoidectomy, if enlarged adenoids are contributing to ear problems.

If your child’s ear infections are frequent or affect their hearing, seeking an ENT consultation can help find the right treatment and prevent further complications. Early intervention is key to ensuring your child’s health and development.