Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Spanish version
Pulling at Ear
DESCRIPTION
Most young children who are pulling at or poking their ears
but have no other symptoms do not have an ear infection.
Many of them have an itchy ear canal from getting soap or
shampoo in it. Some have just discovered their ears and are
playing with them (6 months to 2 years old). If the
behavior occurs only when your child is sleepy, it may be a
self-comforting habit.
HOME CARE
- Treatment
Mix a solution that is half rubbing alcohol and half
white vinegar. Place one to two drops in each ear daily
for 3 days.
- Prevention
- Keep soap and shampoo out of the ear canal.
- Don't use cotton swabs in the ear canal because they
remove the earwax that protects the lining of the
canal and this can cause irritation or itching.
- After swimming, get all water out of the ear canals
by turning the head to the side and pulling the
earlobe in different directions to help the water run
out.
CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN WITHIN 24 HOURS IF:
- Your child develops ear pain.
- A discharge from the ear occurs.
- Your child develops a fever (over 100 degrees F, or
37.8 degrees C) or any signs of a cold.
- Pulling at the ear continues more than 3 days.
- You have other concerns or questions.
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Written by B.D. Schmitt, M.D., author of "Your Child's Health," Bantam Books.
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Copyright 1999 Clinical Reference Systems
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