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High temperature

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Headache

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Usually pain in the ear and hearing loss. Ear infections without pain are not uncommon too

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Sometimes, pus discharge from the ear also accompanies these symptoms

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Mostly, these infections are bacterial or viral in nature and are caused by the same culprits that are responsible for upper respiratory tract infections. The wider, shorter and weak Eustachian tubes carry these bacteria and viruses to the middle ear.

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Different allergies like hay fever also cause ear infections in children, usually affecting those who normally take a poor nutritive diet. Poor nutrition results in decreased immunity levels, making it easier for them to catch any infection.

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Bottle feeding - Muscles pertaining to proper periodic opening of the Eustachian tubes are not exercised properly when children are fed through bottle. In contrast, breast feeding does this job exceedingly well. Now, that’s another wonderful benefit of breast feeding, as regards your child’s health.

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Children in day care are more prone to cold and other infections. Both these conditions might ultimately result in ear infections.

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Chamomile was regarded by ancient Anglo-Saxons as one of the nine sacred herbs given to the world. In modern times it is still a very popular soothing remedy with a wide variety of uses in supporting health in many different body systems.

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Pulsatilla (12C) is often recommended following exposure to cold or dampness. This proven ingredient is particularly effective in maintaining and supporting ear health.

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Ferrum phos. (D6) is a biochemic tissue salt which has many uses in the body. Two of the most important benefits are in the ability of Ferrum phos. to maintain strength in the walls of the blood vessels and to support the body's ability to distribute oxygen-rich blood and iron to all cells.

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Verbascum thapsus (Mullein flower) supports the health of the skin when applied topically and has a long history of traditional use. Recent studies have investigated Mullein for its ability to soothe the ear.

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Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree Oil) is widely used to soothe and promote healthy skin. This oil is gentle enough for delicate areas of the body, such as the ears, yet still provides support for the auditory canal and inner ear.

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Lavandula officinalis (Lavender) is another well-known herb that has made its home in countries all over the world, including Europe and Africa. Lavender contains the active ingredients tannins, coumarins, flavinoids, triterpenoids and volatile oil. It is best known for its soothing properties and has been researched for its ability to support the immune system and systemic health.

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Echinacea purpurea (also known as American coneflower) is a Native American herb that has become famous for its tonic effect on the immune system. The roots of this herb contain polysaccharides that give a tremendous boost to the immune system. This herb has a property if inducing phagocytosis, a process in which foreign bodies get engulfed by the immune cells. Echinacea not only is a perfect remedy for colds and upper respiratory infections but also restores the natural immune system of the body quickly. Over 500 scientific studies have documented the effectiveness of this herb and research has confirmed this native traditional wisdom.

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Astragalus membranaceous (also known by its Chinese name, 'Huang qi') is a potent yet child-safe Chinese remedy that has a variety of benefits as an immune-supportive and rejuvenating tonic. Studies have shown Astragalus to maintain immune responses effectively.

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Withania somnifera (also known as Winter cherry) has been an important herb in the Ayurvedic and indigenous medical systems for over 3000 years, and is also called 'Indian ginseng'. It is one of the most important Ayurvedic tonic herbs, recommended for supporting growth, energy, and stamina. Regular use can also help to support blood nourishment, and it has been shown to have a tonic effect on the immune system.

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Aaron’s rod – Flower of Aaron’s rod contains mucilage, saponins, flavonoids and iridoids. All these render Aaron’s rod with excellent expectorant, soothing and anti-inflammatory properties thereby making it an important remedy in treating upper respiratory tract infections. Mixed with olive oil, it is generally used to ease pain in case of ear aches.

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Mallow – Mostly found in Europe, this plant has lobed leaves and mauve colored flowers. Both the leaves and flowers are very rich in mucilage which provides it with soothing qualities that are most effective on bronchial tubes. Hence, the herbs use in treating coughs and bronchial ailments. Mallow flowers contain anthocyanin pigments which have great antioxidant properties. Recent researches have shown that this herb is therefore very useful and effective in strengthening immune system.

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For immediate relief, pain relievers containing Tylenol, Tempra, Panadol etc. can be given at bedtime for better sleep.

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Keep the head of your child upright as much as possible, as it helps in naturally clearing of the Eustachian tubes, using gravity. This is one reason why children don’t complain about their ear pain during the day.

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Oral and nasal decongestants definitely give a lot of relieve, especially in the nights.

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Gently massage the area directly behind the earlobe to help loosen the wax. Then tug the earlobe while opening and closing of your child's mouth.

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Chew sugar-free gum containing the sweetener xylitol. Studies suggest that children who chew two pieces of sugar-free gum 5 times a day for 2 months have nearly 40% less chance of getting ear infections. Xylitol may be cutting down on the growth of bacteria that causes middle ear infections.

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If your child goes for swimming, he should wear earplugs to keep the water out. Choose wax or silicone plugs that can be softened and molded to fit the ear canal. After swimming or showering, blow dry your child's ears. Set the drier on low and direct warm air into his ear for about 20 seconds. Hold the nozzle at least 30cms away.

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Avoid exposure to loud noises. If it is not possible at times - make him wear ear defenders.

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Smoking should be strictly prohibited inside the premises where your child spends most of the time as the smoke fills the ears with irritants thereby increasing the chances of an infection. Same holds true for soot and smoke from the fire in your stove. So, put out the fire in your woodstove unless you can’t do without it at all.

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Day care for your child should be chosen very carefully as children catch ear infections from each other very fast. This is specifically important for children prone to ear problems. A family day care with less number of children is the thing for your child, if leaving him for the day is unavoidable.