Summarize the following:
The most common symptoms of OM and OME include ear pain or ear tugging (if the child can't yet verbalize pain), fussiness, fever, and even vomiting. In addition, a child may eat or have trouble sleeping normally because lying down, chewing, and sucking can alter the pressure in the ear and cause pain. Given that the age group most commonly affected from ear infections and fluid ranges from three months to two years old, parents or primary caregivers will be required to give as much information and history as possible to the doctor on their children's behalf. Thus, it's important to keep track and careful record of any noted symptoms. Be aware that OME often has no symptoms. Some people may experience a feeling of fullness in their ear or a "popping" sensation. " Ear infections are considered secondary infections that follow the "common cold," or the primary infection. You should expect to see a few days of nasal discharge or congestion, cough, sore throat, and a low fever, all typical symptoms that accompany colds. Most colds are due to viral infections and, given that there is no treatment for viral infections, there is usually no reason to seek medical attention. Only seek medical attention if the fever cannot be controlled through appropriate doses of Tylenol or Motrin (and reaches temperatures higher than 102F or 38.9C). Keep track of all symptoms of the cold, as your doctor will want to know about the primary infection. The cold should last for a week. If you don't see improvement after a week, visit your doctor. OM and OME can block sounds, which can lead to hearing issues. Signs that proper hearing may be impacted include: Failure to respond to soft sounds or other noises The need to turn up the TV or radio to a louder volume Talking in an unusually loud voice General inattentiveness Most ear infections don't cause long-term complications and often go away on their own within 2-3 days. However, frequent infections or fluid build-up post-infection can result in some serious complications, including: Impaired hearing Although slight difficulties in hearing are common with ear infections, more severe hearing loss can be a result of ear persistent infections or fluid, which can in some cases cause damage to the eardrum and middle ear. Speech or developmental delays In young children, hearing loss could result in developmental delays in speech, particularly if they are not yet verbal. Spread of infection Infections that remain untreated or that do not respond to treatment can spread to other tissues and should be addressed immediately. Mastoiditis is one possible infection that can result in the bony protrusion behind the ear. Not only can this bone become damaged but pus-filled cysts can also develop. In a few rare cases, severe middle ear infections can spread into the skull and affect the brain. Tearing of the eardrum Infections can sometimes result in a tearing or rupturing of the eardrum. Most tears usually heal within three or so days, but in a few exceptional incidences, surgery may be required.
Take note of visible symptoms related to the ear. Keep track of symptoms related to the "common cold. Look for signs of hearing problems. Understand the potential complications.