Allergies & Ear Infections
Middle ear infections (otitis media) plague both children and adults, but they are more common in children because their inner ears are less developed. In some cases ear infections are caused by viruses that create bacteria that grow within the fluid in the ear. This is usually treated by a doctor, who prescribes a course of antibiotics. But if ear infections continue to occur despite proper treatment, they may be a result of an allergy. Nearly 50 percent of all ear infections in children over the age of 6 are the result of an allergy. Of all children ages 3 to 6, 20 percent to 40 percent have allergies. So the chances that a child will have an ear infection caused by allergies is fairly high.
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How Ear Infections Occur
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An infection in the ear occurs when passages in the middle ear and Eustachian tube become inflamed. This inflammation occurs when the person with allergies is exposed to an allergen. Fluid accumulates in the ear and creates the perfect environment for bacteria to breed. If ear infections continue to occur, hearing can be affected. Young children may even develop speech problems as a result of recurrent ear infections.
Preventing Ear Infections Caused By Allergies
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To prevent permanent damage to the ear, it is important to stop the cycle of ear infections caused by allergies. Ear infections cause ear itching, fullness and popping. Adults or children with these symptoms should be considered for allergy testing. Allergy testing will help to identify the allergens that may be causing the problem.
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Types of Allergies
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Allergies can range from airborne allergens such as tree or grass pollen, to dust mites and animal dander. Once the allergy is identified, it is essential to reduce exposure to the offending allergen. Many people don't realize that food allergies are a major cause of ear infections. Food allergies cause congestion in the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes just like other allergies. Fluid accumulates in the middle ear, leading to infections. If food allergies are a trigger of ear infections, the offending foods should be removed from the diet. Milk, wheat, eggs and peanuts are the most common food allergies in children.
Treatment for Allergies
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If allergies are severe, the doctor may suggest allergy shots to desensitize the person to specific allergens. At the very least, a number of allergy medicines may be prescribed in order to help alleviate the allergy symptoms that lead to ear infections. These might include antihistamines, decongestants, nasal steroid and nasal antihistamine sprays. The doctor may recommend both over-the-counter and prescription allergy medicines.
Other Things to Avoid
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People with allergies and recurrent ear infections should avoid smoking and second-hand smoke. They should stay away from people and children with colds and viruses. These are also triggers for inflammation in the nasal passages and Eustachian tubes, and can be a contributing cause of ear infections.
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References
- Photo Credit Alan L
