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Chiropractic Care Can Help with Ear Infections
Ear infections can be a real bugger for kids AND their families. Nobody wants to have one, and nobody wants to watch their loved ones have one.
Ear infections are caused by a virus or bacteria inside the ear, usually a virus. Viral ear infections typically resolve on their own. There are different viruses such as influenza, rhinovirus, coronavirus, adenovirus, and others. These viruses cause an immune response in the body which can lead to inflammation, fever, cough, runny nose, and other symptoms.
Ear Adjustments
Chiropractic ear adjustments can be done to provide relief for ear infections. The adjustment stretches and mobilizes the ear tissues that connect to the Eustachian Tubes, which allows the ears to drain and relieves the built-up pressure. Chiropractors also perform lymphatic and sinus drainage techniques to get the fluids and waste products moving again. It’s important to be well hydrated before and after this.
Babies and small children struggle with ear infections more than adults
There is a small passage that runs from the ear to the back of the throat called a Eustachian Tube. This tube allows air into the middle ear to equalize pressure to the outside environment. It also allows fluids to drain from the ear into the throat. In children and babies, the Eustachian Tube is smaller, more horizontal, and less rigid than it is in adults, which prevents it from draining when there is inflammation.
Breastmilk can help prevent ear infections
Breastfed babies receive antibodies from their mom’s breastmilk. Antibodies help them fight off infections since their immune systems are immature. Unfortunately, because most babies don’t breastfeed past 6 months old, ear infections tend to be more common in babies older than 6 months.
How do I know if my kid has an ear infection?
Thankfully, it’s usually not too difficult to tell if a child has an ear infection. Signs your child has an infection include:
- Crankiness
- Fever
- Throwing up
- Diarrhea
- Tugging at their ear
It’s also important to remember that a fever is the body’s proper and appropriate response to fighting infection. There is no need to reduce the fever with medications unless the fever gets dangerously high (above 105-106) or if the child seems to be very uncomfortable. The body puts its own limits on how high the fever will go; the higher body temperature is what kills the virus. Let the fever ride if you can.
Natural Remedies for Ear Infections
In addition to chiropractic care, some other natural remedies can be helpful. Garlic has antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Garlic oil applied into the ear canal can provide relief. Mullein is an herb that is often mixed with garlic oil. Mullein oil is also dropped into the ear canal, and can provide pain relief, antiviral effects, and it is anti-inflammatory. It’s also important to keep up with Vitamin C, D, Zinc, and a warm compress on the ear may help with discomfort too.
Let Ideal Family Chiropractic Help
If you or your children struggle with chronic ear infections and are in Logan, Utah or the surrounding areas, consider contacting us! Schedule an appointment now.
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2072 N Main St
Suite 101
North Logan Utah, 84341
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+1 234 567 890