For children who are prone to middle ear infections or have chronic fluid buildup behind their middle ear, an ear doctor may surgically insert ear tubes to help with drainage. These small, hollow cylinders assist people who don’t have enough natural ventilation. To make sure that your child gets the full benefits of this procedure, practice the following.

Do:

Leave them alone. 

Ear tubes are tiny, so you won’t likely see them when your child returns from surgery. They also don’t require active care. Ear tubes are designed to provide long-term middle ear drainage, so they will stay in your child’s ear for several months and fall out on their own. 

Schedule a follow-up appointment.

Even though your child’s ear tubes will likely fall out naturally, you should still schedule an appointment with an ear doctor. The date should be within two to four weeks of the initial surgery. Afterward, they will need to see the doctor or their primary care physician every four to six months to ensure no complications are present.

Don’t:

Let them submerge underwater.

While swimming, water can enter the ear. While this may not lead to another ear infection, it is better to exercise caution. When planning a trip to the beach or local pool, get clearance from their ear doctor before letting them play in the water. For extra protection, have them use ear putty or plugs.

Put anything in your child’s ear.

When cleaning your child’s ear, avoid putting anything in the canal, including cotton swabs. These cleaning tools can puncture their eardrum and create further damage. Instead, clean their ears using a clean, dampened cloth to wipe away any fluid that has drained. 

For more information about ear tubes and how they may help your child’s middle ear issues, reach out to the team at Ear Nose & Throat Specialties PC. Based in Lincoln, NE, and serving the surrounding areas, these professional ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors, nurses, and audiologists offer comprehensive services to patients of all ages. They offer diagnosis and treatment for a variety of issues, including allergies, sinus issues, and hearing problems. To schedule an appointment, call (402) 488-5600. Visit them online to learn more about their services.