Parents of children with ear infections in Springfield and Northhampton, MA, know their kids aren’t always the biggest fans of doctors. However, they also know that some infections are stronger than their child’s immune system and require prescription antibiotics. Other infections cause damage and must be treated more proactively. When you see these symptoms, visit the Ear, Nose, and Throat Surgeons of Western New England.
Excessive Fever
The most surefire way parents in Springfield, MA, can detect ear infections in their children is by checking their temperature. Infections happen when viruses or bacteria get into the ear. When your body detects viruses or bacteria, it defends itself by raising its temperature. It does that because many viruses and bacteria can only survive at standard human temperatures. However, children also must stay at normal temperatures as often as possible. A low fever that doesn’t last very long is part of the healing process. If it doesn't go away for two or more days or reaches over 102° F, it's dangerous. If your child experiences either symptom, see us right away.
Hearing Loss
Most parents understand that if their child with an ear infection complains of difficulty or inability to hear, they need a doctor. Prescription antibiotics will help restore hearing in some cases. In other cases, hearing loss is a sign of an unusually aggressive infection that may require additional medical care. Our doctors can diagnose the difference and start a treatment plan.
Discharge From The Ear
Another sign most parents know instinctively is fluid coming out of the ear. Generally speaking, no one’s ears should ever leak. Whether the discharge is pus or some other liquid, leaking ears signal trouble in the ear canal. Your doctor can determine the severity of the problem and how to stop the leakage.
Worsening Symptoms
Sometimes, your child’s immune response, combined with over-the-counter medication, can get them through their infection. If your child’s symptoms are calming over time, that’s fantastic news. If the symptoms seem to be getting worse, that means your child’s body is not eliminating the infection. Even a light cough that turns into a heavy one or a sore throat that started as an inconvenience and now affects your kid’s appetite means your child’s immune system needs help. A doctor can give them that help.
Ear Infection Specialists
If your child is dealing with ear infections in Springfield and Northhampton, MA, schedule an appointment with Ear, Nose, and Throat Surgeons of Western New England. Contact us at (413) 732-7426 to reach the Springfield, MA, office, and (413) 586-2033 for Northhampton, MA.