What are the possible complications from an ear infection?
It is common for some mucus to remain behind the eardrum after the infection clears. This may cause dulled hearing for a while. This usually clears within a week or so, and hearing then returns to normal. Sometimes the mucus does not clear properly and 'glue ear' may develop. Hearing may then remain dulled. See a doctor if dulled hearing persists after an ear infection has gone.
If the eardrum perforates, then it usually heals over quickly once the infection clears. However, in some cases, the perforation remains long-term and may need treatment to fix it.
If a child is normally well then the risk of other serious complications developing from an ear infection is small. Rarely, a serious infection of the bone behind the ear develops from an ear infection. This is called mastoiditis. Very rarely, the infection spreads deeper into the brain. See a doctor if a child becomes more ill, does not improve over 2-3 days, or develops any symptoms that you are not sure about.
Will it happen again, and can it be prevented?
It is quite common for children to have two or more bouts of ear infection throughout childhood. In most cases, there is nothing you can do to prevent the infection form occurring. However, there is some evidence to suggest that an ear infection is less likely to develop:
- In breastfed children.
- In babies who do not use dummies. If you do give your child a dummy, it is best to limit the use. For example, just use a dummy to help a baby get to sleep, but not at other times.
- In children who live in a smoke free home. Passive smoking of babies and children can increase the risk of developing ear infections, chest infections, and other chest problems.
Occasionally, some children have recurring bouts of ear infections close together. If this occurs, a specialist may advise a long course of antibiotics to prevent further bouts occurring.
© EMIS and PIP 2006 Updated: September 2006 PRODIGY Validated
