Canton Center Pediatrics is here with Dr. Baqir Malik to manage many health dangers for little ones. For instance, we can handle ear infections for Canton, MI, children and help parents manage this common problem. If you’re worried your child has one, here’s what to know.

What Causes Infections?

Infections in the ear typically occur when bacteria or viruses enter the middle ear, just behind the eardrum. Sometimes, an infection will spread through the ear rapidly and can cause more severe problems. In other cases, it goes away on its own. Triggers for it include playing in the dirt, swimming in dirty water, or experiencing various diseases that worsen symptoms, like:

• Colds, cases of flu, or allergies 
• Drinking from a bottle while lying down 
• Living with or spending time with smokers 
• Getting exposed to germs regularly at school

Are There Symptoms?

At Canton Center Pediatrics, Dr. Malik can quickly and accurately diagnose ear infections in children in Canton, MI. He’ll check the child’s temperature, examine it physically, and find ways to minimize risks. You can also tell us about any symptoms that your child might be experiencing. These include a myriad of painful reactions to the infection that can make life difficult, such as:

• Ear pain that triggers a dull or throbbing ache in the child’s head 
• Trouble hearing (their ear sounds “plugged up,” and things might be muffled to them)
• Fevers that will take their temperature higher than 98.6 degrees and further 
• Ear drainage problems, usually pus or fluid that leaks out of the ear
• Headaches that might include pressure or pain in the ears and throughout the head 
• Sleep problems and further discomfort (requires immediate attention to manage)

Can You Treat It?

Once we know that your child has an infection, there are a few steps to take. Sometimes, it’s best just to let the condition go its course. That might seem strange, but many infections are minor and don’t require immediate care. However, other situations require medical care.

Over-the-counter pain relievers reduce symptoms and ensure they don’t worsen. If necessary, we’ll provide antibiotics that can help further. We usually reserve this care for severe infections, those that have lasted more than a few days, or for children with weak immune systems. We also give them to children under two due to the potential complications from infections.

We’re Available for You!

At Canton Center Pediatrics, Dr. Malik is ready to help manage ear infections in Canton, MI! Call our office at (734) 254-1900 to schedule an appointment. Taking this condition seriously gives your children the best chance to bounce back.