Parents, HEARS what you need to know about Ear Tubes

The American Academy of Otolaryngology refers to ear infections as a right of passage for children. Ear infections are common in younger children, most having experienced at least one ear infection by the age of five. There are two types of ear infections: viral and bacterial. Viral infections tend to resolve on their own, while bacterial infections are treated with antibiotics.

“For a person that encounters recurring ear infections tympanostomy tubes are recommended to allow drainage of infection,” said Jim Fox, PA-C at Catawba Valley Family Medicine of Claremont.

Tympanostomy tubes (ear tubes) are are tiny cylinders placed through the ear drum (tympanic membrane). Inserting a tympanostomy tube requires an outpatient surgical procedure that lasts less than 15 minutes and in certain circumstances a person may require general anesthetic with which they awaken quickly. This procedure involves creating a tiny incision in the tympanic membrane, removing the fluid trapped behind the ear drum and insetting an ear tube to prevent the incision from closing to allow air into the middle ear.

“After surgery, the patient feels little to no pain and any hearing loss caused by fluid in the middle ear is immediately resolved. The treating physician will provide any specific postoperative instructions to insure a healthy recovery,” said Jim Fox.

If your child shows symptoms of an ear infection or has experienced reoccurring ear infections that are not resolved with antibiotics you should consult your Catawba Valley Family Medicine physician. To schedule an appointment at Catawba Valley Family Medicine – Claremont, located at 3114 West Main Street in Catawba, NC 28610, please call 828.241.2377.

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