Friday, March 04, 2011

Health Tips for March 4

Health Tip: Does Your Child Have Mastoiditis?

When the mastoid bone in the skull becomes infected, it's called mastoiditis. Often it's triggered by an infection in the middle ear, and it's most common in children.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine mentions these symptoms that may indicate mastoiditis:

  • Fluid draining from the ear.
  • Pain or discomfort in the ear.
  • A fever, which may suddenly rise and get very high.
  • Headache.
  • Loss of hearing.
  • Reddening of the ear or the area behind it.
  • Swelling of the area behind the ear, which can make the ear protrude.

Health Tip: Why People Get Ear Infections

An ear infection is a common ailment, especially among young children whose eustachian tubes clog easily.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine says possible causes of ear infection include:

  • A sinus infection or the common cold.
  • Allergies.
  • Exposure to tobacco smoke or other irritating substances.
  • Infected or overgrown adenoids.
  • A side effect of teething among young children.

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