Why Are Ear Infections So Common, and How Can You Help Your Child Avoid Them?

Why Are Ear Infections So Common, and How Can You Help Your Child Avoid Them?

As a pediatric chiropractor, one of the most common issues I see is Ear Infections - which I know can be so frustrating and exhausting for families. Between the sleepless nights, countless pediatrician visits, and multiple rounds of antibiotics, ear infections can feel like a never-ending cycle sometimes, and if surgery comes into the conversation, it can feel overwhelming.

But here’s the good news! There are natural, non-invasive options to help alleviate your child’s ear infections without turning to medication or surgery. Keep reading to find some easy, at home remedies you can try to help alleviate your kiddos discomfort. 

What Exactly Is an Ear Infection?

An ear infection happens when fluid builds up in the middle ear and becomes stagnant and causes inflammation and swelling in the Eustachian tube (which is the passage that connects the middle ear to the nose). When it becomes concerning is when this fluid doesn’t drain properly and leads to chronic infections. 

Ear infections can be caused by either viruses and bacteria, but the real problem often lies in poor drainage. If the middle ear or Eustachian tube can’t drain properly, fluids build up, creating the perfect environment for infection. 

How Do You Know If It’s an Ear Infection?

Here are the common signs to watch for:

  • Your child is tugging or pulling at their ear(s)

  • Complaints of ear pain or discomfort

  • Fever

  • Difficulty sleeping

  • Crying that’s hard to soothe

Traditional Treatments: Antibiotics & Surgery

The standard course of action often includes antibiotics or, in more serious cases, the discussion of ear tubes. Here’s the thing though—if the ear infection is viral (which is common), antibiotics won’t help at all. If your child has chronic ear infections and are using antibiotics time and time again, it can weaken your child’s immune system, making them more prone to future infections and continuing the cycle of illness.

Natural Remedies for Ear Infections

If you’re looking for home remedies to support your child’s body in healing and preventing ear infections, then you’re in luck!

  1. Chiropractic Care 

    1. A nervous system stuck in fight-or-flight mode can cause tension in the muscles surrounding the ears, which makes it harder for the Eustachian tube to drain properly. Gentle chiropractic adjustments can help balance the nervous system, improving drainage and helping the body fight off infections more efficiently. Not only can this speed up recovery, but regular adjustments may also prevent infections from returning.

  2. Warm Compresses

    1.  A warm compress over the affected ear can help soothe discomfort and relax the muscles around the ear, aiding in fluid drainage.

  3. Lymphatic Massage 

    1. A gentle massage around the ears and neck, following the lymphatic pathways, can promote fluid drainage and help the body eliminate the infection faster.

  4. Sleep & Rest 

    1. Sleep is essential for a healthy immune system. Encourage your child to rest as much as possible, and try to have them sleep on the side opposite the affected ear to reduce pressure and pain.

  5. Vitamin D 

    1. Boosting your child’s Vitamin D levels can strengthen their immune system, making it easier to fight off infections in the first place. You can get this through supplements, enjoying sunshine, or eating Vitamin D-rich foods such as salmon or mushrooms

Prevention Is Key

There’s so much more to ear infections than what we often hear about. One of the best and most important things you can do for your child is to incorporate regular chiropractic care into their routine. Not only can it help them recover faster, but it can also play a significant role in preventing future infections. At Early Beginnings, our chiropractors can thorughoughly check your kiddos and offer suggestions on how to best support your childrens immune systems. A healthy nervous system means the body is better equipped to function as it should—keeping infections at bay and keeping your kiddos happy, healthy and active!




Courtney Mitchell