Ear Aches

When a child or an adult has an ear ache it is most commonly associated with an infection of the middle ear.  The tympanic membrane is the barrier between the outer ear and the middle ear.  When there is an infection or fluid buildup in the middle ear this causes the pain to occur.  The fluid puts pressure on the tympanic membrane and also changes the pressure gradient between the middle and outer ear.  Children are more common to develop a middle ear infection, but it can still occur in adults.  The symptoms and signs that are listed will help parents to determine if their child might have an ear infection.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Pulls or tugs at ears
• Increased crying
• Fluid draining from ears
• Trouble sleeping
• Hearing deficits
• Fever
• Complaining of one ear, but it could be both

Chiropractic can help to reduce the symptoms associated with an ear ache.  This is accomplished by releasing the pressure against the tympanic membrane and by addressing the subluxations* in the neck.

*Do not know what a "subluxation" is, visit the Health First Blog for a full description.