Ear Infections


Ear infections commonly affect the middle part of the ear. A small tube connects the middle ear to the throat. A cold can cause this tube to swell. When the tube swells enough to become blocked, it can trap fluid inside your ear. This makes it a perfect place for germs to grow and cause an ear infection.

Ear infections happen mostly to young children because their tubes are smaller and get blocked more easily. Some methods of prevention include:
Not smoking
Breastfeeding your baby.
Washing your hands often to prevent germs spreading
Having your child immunized against infections

Symptoms of an ear infection include:
Ear pain
Fever
Drainage from the ear that is thick and yellow or bloody
Loss of appetite, vomiting, and grumpy behaviour
Trouble sleeping and hearing

Talk to your pharmacist or doctor for more information on ear infections.