Professor Peter Closman said that otitis media specifically attacks children, because their Eustachian canal is short, wide and straight, so bacteria and viruses have no difficulty reaching the middle ear.
The otolaryngologist explained that otitis media often occurs as a result of an upper respiratory tract infection. Or in both ears.
Closman stressed the need to consult a doctor immediately after observing these symptoms in order to treat otitis media in a timely manner, warning that neglecting treatment raises the risk of infection of the ear or meningitis, which may be life-threatening.
Risk factors include:
Children who are artificially breastfed by breastfeeding are more likely to have middle ear infections than those who are breastfed.
Exposure to tobacco, for example if an individual is a smoker.
Air pollution increases the probability of ear infections.
Ear infections are more likely in the autumn and winter, with high rates of colds and flu, diseases that play a role in the development of otitis.
protection
Reduce the risk of infection by applying hygiene standards, such as accustoming the child to washing his hands frequently.
Teach your child not to share food, drink or tools to avoid infection.
Refrain from smoking to provide a tobacco-free and secondary smoking environment.
Breastfeeding, mother's milk contains antibodies that provide protection from otitis.
If the baby is breastfeeding, it is advisable to breastfeed in a sitting position, and should not be given milk while lying down.