What Is An Ear Infection

Ear infections are one of the most common reasons why parents bring their kids to the doctor. Ear infections account for almost 30 million visits to the pediatrician and cost more than 2.2 billion dollars annually. Despite the vast increase of antibiotic use in treatment, the incidence of Otitis Media (OM), or middle ear infection, has continued to rise.

Most cases of OM occur between the ages of 6 and 36 months. Around 6 months of age many child begins to eat solid foods. This results in these children spending less time sucking. Sucking produces cranial motion, which helps to move fluid out of the middle ear.

The position of the Eustachian tube in children is horizontal, where as in an adult it is vertical. The horizontal position of the Eustachian tube makes it increasingly difficult for the middle ear to drain into the throat. As well when swelling occurs in the tissue lining the middle ear and/or Eustachian tube, the opening of the Eustachian tube becomes obstructed, preventing drainage from occurring. Fluid then builds up putting pressure on the eardrum, resulting in redness and pain. It is not uncommon to see an upper respiratory tract infection precede a middle ear infection.

What Are The Symptoms Of An Ear Infection

The symptoms of acute OM vary greatly with the age. Children who can't yet talk may pull on their ear or poke a finger into their ear. They may have trouble sleeping and refuse to breastfeed on one or both sides. Older children may complain of ear pain, or a ringing in their ears. They may tilt their head to one side. A discharge from the ear may indicate that the ear drum has ruptured.

The best way to help a child who has an ear infection is to boost their immune system. Eliminate refined sugar, dairy products and reduce foods which are high in fat. High fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, and grains are very important. A vitamin/mineral supplement may be helpful in getting adequate vitamins A, C, E, and B complex.

How Can Chiropractic Help

Chiropractic manipulative therapy to the vertebrae in the neck reduces accompanying muscle spasms allowing lymph to drain, resulting in the proper nerve supply required for optimum functioning of the involved structures. Subluxations, or misalignments of the spine, reduce the healing capacity of the body. Chiropractic manipulative therapy will allow the body to self-heal by allowing full, unobstructed functioning, of the nervous system.