Ear infections in babies: how to treat them?

How do you treat an ear infection in a baby? This ENT condition affects many infants. And although it is a common and benign infection in the vast majority of cases, it is important to treat it properly.

A common ENT condition

Although fairly common, it is important to know how to detect it, and consequently to recognise its symptoms. But also to know how to treat it, and when to seek medical advice.

An ear infection can be of viral origin, in which case it lasts only a few days. However, if it is of bacterial origin, antibiotics will be necessary to treat it properly.

Ear infection in babies: symptoms

It is worth knowing, first of all, that the symptoms of an ear infection can vary depending on the child's age. In the case of an acute middle ear infection, they essentially include:

• A temperature above 38°C
• Ear pain
• A buzzing or ringing sensation
• But also a yellowish discharge

Most of these signs of an ear infection are difficult to detect in an infant, as they cannot express their pain in words. You can then rely on their behaviour — incessant crying, irritability, diarrhoea, or a hand placed on the ear, for example. These small clues can point you in the right direction...

Ear infection in babies: how to treat it?

First of all, it is possible to ease your baby's pain with a fairly simple gesture. Simply massage the back of the ear gently, over the bone, for around 1 minute.

In most cases, this ENT infection clears up on its own. It is necessary to monitor your baby's temperature regularly, as well as their general condition. The paediatrician may, however, prescribe an analgesic antipyretic to ease the pain.

Nevertheless, if your baby has more alarming symptoms — such as a temperature above 40°C, breathing difficulties, significant vomiting and diarrhoea, purple skin patches, or if your baby is under 3 months old — do not hesitate to seek medical attention straight away.

As a general rule, it is preferable to consult your doctor at the first signs in order to obtain a professional diagnosis.