If an infection occurs, you will usually notice drainage or a bad smell from the ear canal. Your child may still get an ear infection (otitis media) with ear tubes. Once the tubes fall out, your child should return for a final re-check after 6-12 months so that your doctor can check the ears and be sure that fluid has not built up again. Children often feel well even when there is a problem with the tube. All children need follow-up no matter how well they are doing. Routine follow-up with your doctor every 4 to 6 months is important to make sure your child’s tubes are in place and to check for any possible problems. Once the tube becomes blocked or comes out, ear plus are not needed if there is no hole in the eardrum. Never use Playdoh or silly putty as an ear plug, because it can become trapped in the ear canal and require surgical removal. Dunking head in bathtub (soapy water has a lower surface tension than plain water)Ī variety of soft, fitted ear plugs are available, if needed, as are special neoprene headbands to cover the ear.Swimming in lakes or non-chlorinated pools.Other times when ear plugs may be needed on an individual basis are: ![]() Frequent or prolonged episodes of ear discharge.Discharge or drainage is observed coming out of the ear canal.Pain or discomfort when water enters the ear canal.As a result, ear plugs are not necessary for most children.Īlthough most children with tubes do not need ear plugs, they may be necessary in the following situations: However, water does not usually go through the tube during swimming. The ear plugs keep water out of the ear canal and out of the ear tube. Some children with ear tubes wear ear plugs when swimming. The hole will often close on its own over time, but if it does not, it can be patched in the operating room. About 1-2 out of every 100 children will develop a small hole of the eardrum after the tube falls out. ![]() Again, this does not affect hearing and rarely requires treatment. Some children develop a small depression or pocket in the eardrum at the tube site after it falls out. I does not affect your child’s hearing or future chance of ear infections. Some children develop a white mark or patch on the eardrum which is called sclerosis. Tubes that do not come out after 3 or more years may need to be removed by your doctor.Ĭomplications of ear tubes are usually minor. The chance of a tube falling in, instead of out, is very rare. ![]() Most tubes last about 6-18 months, allowing many children to outgrow their ear problems. Ear tubes help protect your child from ear infections, middle-ear fluid (liquid behind the ear drum) and the hearing problems that go along with them.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |