Ear Infection

ear infection relief

Addressing Ear Infections with Chiropractic Care in Ames, IA

Ear infections are a prevalent issue among children but shouldn't be seen as a typical part of childhood. Many parents in Ames, IA immediately turn to antibiotics for their children, assuming ear infections are bacterial. However, diagnosing ear infections can be challenging, as symptoms like pain, hearing issues, vomiting, and fever are similar whether the infection is viral or bacterial. This article explores how chiropractic care can effectively manage ear infections, especially when traditional methods fall short.

Understanding Ear Infections

Ear infections tend to increase during the colder months (December through March) and are most common in children under two. Signs often include ear pulling, which can be mistaken for teething or habit, and noticeable pain, particularly when lying down or at night. It's important to note that not all ear infections present with a fever—only about one-third to one-half do.

Causes of Ear Infections

Ear infections typically occur due to the blockage of the Eustachian tubes caused by swelling. This blockage prevents air from reaching the middle ear, creating a vacuum that pulls in fluid and germs from the nose and throat, fostering bacterial or viral growth and leading to infection.

Conventional Diagnosis and Treatments

Ear infections are usually treated with antibiotics if they are thought to be bacterial. However, this treatment is ineffective against viral infections and doesn't address underlying structural issues that may lead to recurrent problems. Invasive procedures like fluid sampling from the middle ear are rare due to their nature and cost. Additionally, tympanostomy tubes, while common, involve anesthesia and are not always effective.

Chiropractic Approach to Ear Infections in Ames

Chiropractors in Ames are skilled in diagnosing and treating the structural causes of ear infections. Misalignments in the spine, especially in the neck and back, can tighten muscles and disrupt the nervous system's communication with the body, including the inner ear. This can impair the ear's ability to protect against infections and drain properly, leading to repeated infections.

Chiropractic care offers a gentle, conservative approach, making it an ideal first step for chronic ear infections. Chiropractors perform thorough examinations to identify any nerve interference and provide specific adjustments to remove these blockages. By restoring proper nervous system function, chiropractic care not only helps manage ear infections but also promotes overall health and development in children.

Steps You Can Take Now

If your child frequently suffers from ear infections, consider these immediate steps:

  • Avoid exposure to smoke and other irritants.
  • Breastfeed if possible, or avoid bottle-feeding in a lying position.
  • Limit pacifier use.
  • Encourage fluid intake.
  • Apply warm compresses and consider gentle ear drops like breast milk.
  • Regular nasal washing can also help clear potential blockages.

Chiropractic care can be an essential component in managing your child's ear infections by addressing the root cause rather than just alleviating symptoms. Contact Day Chiropractic in Ames today to schedule a consultation and discover how chiropractic treatments can help your child overcome chronic ear infections and achieve better health.

Our testimonial
What patients say about Day Chiropractic
I’d rate higher if it went higher. I’ve gone to Dr Day more than once in pain and she has helped immensely. Cannot say enough good! Thank you!
Linda R.
Loved meeting Dr. Lisa! So personable and caring about me, my pains and even just getting to know about my family and I. She got places in my neck to adjust that haven't budged in years!! Highly happy to recommend!
Jasmin D.
Dr. Day does a great job. The first appointment is super informative and she takes X-rays to show where spine needs realignment! Super professional and very down to earth!
Zack R.
It's nice to find a chiropractor that involves you in your health decisions and helping to heal your body the way God intended. It’s also nice to have a massage therapist available in the office too. The entire office staff is spectacular!
Eli