At SoCal ENT in Palmdale, our specialists provide compassionate, evidence-based treatment for pediatric ear infections. Using advanced diagnostic tools, we identify the cause of ear pain or fluid buildup and create customized care plans to restore comfort and hearing. From recurrent infections to middle-ear fluid, our team ensures your child receives gentle, effective relief in a supportive environment.
Ear infections are one of the most common childhood conditions, often causing ear pain, temporary hearing loss, and recurring discomfort.
At SoCal ENT, our specialists provide expert, compassionate care for both children and adults affected by acute or chronic ear infections. Using advanced diagnostic technology, we identify the underlying cause and create a personalized treatment plan to relieve symptoms, prevent recurrence, and support long-term ear health.
An ear infection, or otitis media, occurs when fluid becomes trapped in the middle ear, leading to inflammation, discomfort, and sometimes temporary hearing loss. The middle ear lies just behind the eardrum and connects to the back of the throat through the eustachian tubes, which help regulate pressure and drain fluid. When these tubes become blocked due to infection, allergies, or sinus congestion, fluid can build up and create the perfect environment for bacteria or viruses to grow.
Ear infections are generally classified into three main types:
Children are especially prone to ear infections because their eustachian tubes are shorter and less effective at draining fluid, making them more susceptible to buildup and infection.
Several factors can increase a child’s risk of developing recurring ear infections:
Colds, flu, or other infections can spread to the middle ear and cause inflammation.
Allergic reactions may lead to swelling or fluid buildup that blocks the eustachian tubes.
Swollen adenoids can trap bacteria and contribute to repeated infections.
Children’s eustachian tubes are smaller and more horizontal, making them more likely to become blocked.
Exposure to smoke irritates the ear and nasal passages, increasing inflammation and infection risk.
Feeding infants in a reclined position can allow fluid to flow into the eustachian tubes, leading to infection.
Ear infections can cause a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to significant pain, depending on the child’s age and the severity of the infection.
Common Signs of Ear Infections in Children:
If ear infection symptoms persist for several days, seek medical evaluation promptly. Early attention can help prevent complications, such as eardrum damage or hearing loss.
At SoCal ENT, treatment is tailored to the cause and severity of each ear infection, with a focus on long-term relief and preserving hearing health.
For bacterial infections, antibiotics may be prescribed to clear the infection and reduce discomfort. Pain-relief options such as ear drops or over-the-counter medication can also help manage symptoms while healing occurs.
For children with frequent infections or persistent fluid buildup, ear tubes can provide lasting relief. These tiny tubes are placed in the eardrum to improve drainage and prevent fluid accumulation. The minimally invasive, outpatient procedure promotes quick recovery and helps reduce future infections while improving hearing.
If enlarged adenoids are contributing to recurring ear infections, removing them can lower infection frequency by reducing bacterial buildup in the nasal passages and middle ear.
This procedure is an option for older children who experience chronic ear pressure or drainage issues. By gently widening the eustachian tube, it helps restore proper airflow, improve drainage, and prevent recurring infections.
Addressing underlying allergies or chronic sinus inflammation can significantly reduce the risk of ear infections. Treatment may include:
For children or adults with chronic sinus congestion, balloon sinuplasty opens blocked sinus pathways using a small balloon catheter. This minimally invasive technique relieves pressure, enhances drainage, and helps prevent fluid buildup in the middle ear—one of the leading causes of recurrent infections.
Your child may be a good candidate for treatment if they experience frequent ear infections, ongoing ear pain, or fluid buildup in the middle ear.
Children who have three or more infections within six months—or four or more within a year—often benefit from further evaluation. Candidates may also include those with hearing loss, speech delays, or sleep disruptions linked to ear discomfort.
At SoCal ENT, our specialists carefully review each child’s medical history, symptoms, and anatomy to create a treatment plan tailored to their unique needs and long-term ear health.
Most mild ear infections heal within a few days once treatment begins. For procedures such as ear tube placement or adenoidectomy, recovery typically takes about one to two weeks. As fluid clears from the middle ear, many children notice quick improvements in hearing, comfort, and sleep quality.
By addressing the underlying cause of recurring infections, treatment helps prevent future episodes and supports long-term ear health. Our team provides detailed aftercare guidance and ongoing support to ensure your child’s recovery is comfortable, complete, and worry-free.
Bacterial ear infections cause severe pain, fever, and discharge, while viral ones might resolve on their own in a few days. A doctor's visit can pinpoint the cause.
The infection isn't contagious, but the germs causing ear infections can be. These viruses and bacteria might lead to colds or sinus infections, potentially resulting in ear problems.
While most ear infections resolve without lasting problems, untreated cases can lead to hearing loss or damage to the eardrum.
As children grow, their eustachian tubes mature, leading to fewer ear infections. If infections persist frequently, medical attention may be needed.
To prevent infections, limit exposure to second-hand smoke, allergens, and those with colds. Breastfeeding or using proper bottle-feeding methods helps.
