Middle Ear Fluid in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

Fluid often builds up inside the ear during a cold or allergies. Usually the fluid drains away, but sometimes a small tube in the ear, called the eustachian tube, stays blocked for months.

Symptoms of fluid buildup may include:

• Popping, ringing, or a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear. Children often have trouble describing this feeling. They may rub their ears trying to relieve the pressure.
• Trouble hearing. Children who have problems hearing may seem like they are not paying attention. Or they may be grumpy or cranky.
• Balance problems and dizziness.

In most cases, you can treat your child at home.

How can you care for your child at home?

• In most children, the fluid clears up within a few months without treatment. Have your child's hearing tested if the fluid lasts longer than 3 months.
• If your child uses a pacifier and is more then 12 months old, try to limit its use to only nighttime hours.
• Keeping your child away from secondhand smoke in closed spaces, such as a car or house, can also help the fluid go away.