It’s easy to overlook your children’s ears, especially if they rarely get earaches or infections. Ear doctors often remind parents that even the healthiest ears require periodic attention, though. If you have young children—or soon will—here’s how to care for their ears properly. 

3 Tips for Taking Care of Your Children’s Ears

1. Let Earwax Alone

Earwax is produced in the ear canal to serve as a protective coating. In other words, it has a purpose and shouldn't be considered a problem. As new wax is produced, old wax will make its way toward the opening of the ear, where it will eventually fall out. You can clean your children’s ears gently with a washcloth to wipe away any loose wax. Otherwise, let it fall out on its own.

Additionally, teach your children not to stick anything—including cotton swabs—into their ears. If they do, they could end up compacting the wax, causing an infection or puncturing their eardrum. 

2. Protect the Ears in All Weather

Because of the way they protrude from the head, ears are especially vulnerable to both sunburn and frostbite. Basal cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer, is especially common on the ears because of continual sun exposure. Apply sunblock to your kids’ ears and outfit them with wide-brimmed hats. During the winter, ensure the whole family dons warm hats that cover ears before going outside.  

3. Know When to Call the Ear Doctor 

It’s not uncommon for young children to put small objects into their noses or ears. Should your child jam something into an ear canal, don't try to remove it yourself. Instead, head to an ear doctor or urgent care center, where they’ll use special tools to extract the object safely. 

You should also visit an ear doctor if your child develops a persistent earache. Common causes include infection, compacted wax, and a ruptured eardrum. After diagnosing the problem, the physician will determine the best way to treat it.

If your child has trouble hearing or develops an earache despite following these tips, make an appointment with one of the ear doctors at Ear Nose & Throat Specialties. Based in Lincoln, NE, they also have satellite clinics in Beatrice, Fairbury, and Seward. For nearly 30 years, this privately owned and operated practice has been providing comprehensive ear, nose, and throat (ENT) care for all age groups. They're proud to be the largest ENT practice in the area. To learn more about their friendly team, visit their website. To make an appointment with a knowledgeable ear doctor, call (402) 488-5600.