Ear infections are one of the most common illnesses in children. It is estimated that 75% of children have had at least one ear infection by the age of three.

Otitis media is the medical term for an ear infection, which can occur in the outer, middle or inner ear. Repeated ear infections can be a cause for concern, as they can lead to hearing loss and other complications. Fortunately, there are several effective treatments for repeated otitis in kids.

1. Antibiotics

Antibiotics are often the first line of treatment for an ear infection. They are effective in killing bacteria that cause the infection. However, antibiotics cannot be used for viral infections.

In some cases, the bacteria may be resistant to the antibiotic and a different antibiotic or treatment may be necessary.

2. Ear Tubes

Ear tubes are tiny tubes that are inserted into the eardrum to allow fluids to drain. They are often used in children who have had repeated ear infections. The tubes can help prevent future infections by keeping fluid from building up behind the eardrum.

3. Nasal Steroids

Nasal steroids can help reduce inflammation in the nose and throat, which can be a contributing factor to ear infections. They work by reducing swelling and congestion, which can prevent fluid from building up in the ears.

Nasal steroids are often prescribed along with antibiotics.

4. Allergy Treatment

Allergies can cause inflammation in the nasal passages, which can contribute to ear infections. An allergy test can help identify the allergen, and treatment can be tailored accordingly.

Allergy treatment may include antihistamines, decongestants or allergy shots.

5. Pain Relief

Ear infections can be painful, especially for children. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce pain and fever. A warm compress or heating pad can also help relieve pain.

6. Prevention Strategies

Preventing ear infections is the best strategy for avoiding repeated otitis.

Reducing exposure to cigarette smoke, washing hands frequently, and avoiding contact with sick individuals, particularly during cold and flu seasons, are all effective prevention strategies. Breastfeeding, avoiding bottle propping, and vaccinating against the flu and pneumococcal bacteria also play important roles in preventing ear infections.

7. Surgery

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. Tympanoplasty is a procedure that repairs a perforated eardrum or damaged middle ear bones.

Mastoidectomy is a procedure that removes infected cells in the mastoid bone, which can become infected as a result of an ear infection that has spread.

8. Natural Remedies

Natural remedies may also be used to treat ear infections. Garlic oil is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent that can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. It can be applied to the outer ear canal using a dropper.

Mullein oil is another natural remedy that can be used to reduce pain and inflammation.

9. Chiropractic Treatment

Some parents have reported success in treating ear infections with chiropractic treatment. Chiropractors can adjust the spine and neck, which can help reduce pressure in the Eustachian tube, and improve drainage of fluid from the middle ear.

However, there is limited scientific research to support the use of chiropractic treatment for ear infections.

10. Probiotics

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeast that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. Studies have shown that probiotics can help reduce the frequency and severity of ear infections in children.

Probiotics can be found in some yogurts, kefir, and other fermented foods, or taken in supplement form.