Middle-ear infection, medically termed otitis media, is a common painful ear infection in infants and children. It most frequently occurs between the ages of six months and two years. Some children are more susceptible to ear infections than others are and may experience recurrent persistent infections. In some cases, untreated infections can contribute to hearing loss and speech delays. 

 

In most cases, ear infections are easy to treat. Children with recurrent infections may benefit from surgically placed ear tubes called tympanostomy tubes. The tubes help to ventilate the middle ear to equalize pressure and relieve symptoms. At Red River ENT Associates, Dr. Paul Guillory and Dr. Renick Webb have more than 20 years of performing pediatric ear tube placement.

 

Please visit our Patient Education Library  to learn more about ear infections.