A toddler’s ears may become plugged for many reasons. Often, plugged ears are nothing serious and will resolve on their own. Common reasons for this problem are common cold, earwax buildup or altitude pressure changes. Occasionally, a more serious condition is responsible for plugged ears such as infection or damage to the ear itself in toddlers. Serious conditions will most likely require medical assistance.
The Common Cold Causes Toddlers and Children to Have Plugged Ears
When you have a cold the middle ear often gets congested with mucus. When this area is clogged up, it can cause mild ear pain and your child may say his ears feel “plugged.” Younger children may not be able to communicate how they feel but they may be extra fussy, not eat or sleep well and may tug on their ears.
Earwax Buildup Causes Plugged Ears for Toddlers & Children
Earwax protects your ear canal lining from water. It also acts a a barrier to fend off infection from bacterial and viral sources. If earwax builds up it can block the canal and may need to be removed by a doctor. Plugged ears from earwax buildup can be irritating and cause loss of hearing. Do not attempt to remove built up earwax with a cotton swab as you may damage the eardrum or make the problem worse.
Plugged Ears in Toddlers and Children When Altitude Pressure Changes
According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, plugged ears are quite common during air travel due to pressure changes. Your Eustachian tube will open frequently to equalize the pressure but you can also do activities like swallowing to help this process. When you are traveling with a toddler or child, encourage him to sip some juice, especially on take-off and landing, to equalize pressure.
More Serious Ear Infection Causes Plugged Ears in Toddlers and Children
Acute otitis media, otherwise known as the ear infection, is often brought on by bacterial or viral infections. Sometimes ear infections will clear up on their own but you may require antibiotics to clear them up if they are serious. If your child has an ear infection some symptoms she may be showing are: ear pain, crying more often, tugging at ears, hearing loss, imbalance, fever, fluid leaking from ear, headache, no appetite, diarrhea or vomiting.
Getting Ear Tubes to Help With Plugged Ears in Toddlers and Children
Your child may require ear tubes to be surgically placed in his ears if he gets ear infections often or if the fluid retained in his ear affects his hearing or speech. Ear fluid can be the result of allergies, infections, enlarged adenoids or structural damage to either the eardrum or middle ear.
The ear tubes usually stay in from six to 12 months and often come out on their own. Drainage holes heal in about a year. Most children require no further treatment.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
References:
AskDrSears.com. "Coughs, Colds and Sinus Infections" (accessed October 4, 2010).
AskDrSears.com. "Earwax" (accessed October 4, 2010).
American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. "Ears and Altitude" (accessed October 4, 2010).
MayoClinic.com. "Ear Infection – Middle Ear" (accessed October 4, 2010).
MayoClinic.com. "Ear Tubes" (accessed October 4, 2010).
Tamara Laschinsky - Health and wellness advocate, author, researcher and owner of Natural e GREEN: Natural Health & Wellness store!
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