Infants Pulling Ears During Teething: Exploring the Reasons Behind This Common Behavior
Headline: Understanding Ear Tugging in Infants: Teething or Something More?
Subhead: A guide to distinguishing between teething discomfort and potential ear infections in babies.
Teething, a milestone in a baby's development, can often cause discomfort and irritation. One common behaviour associated with teething is ear tugging, a behaviour that might leave parents concerned about their baby's health. This article aims to shed light on the connection between teething and ear tugging, and provide valuable insights to help parents distinguish between teething and potential ear infections.
Ear tugging in infants is a common behaviour associated with teething. This happens because the gums and the ear share some nerve pathways, so pain or discomfort in the gums during teething may be felt around the ear area, leading the baby to tug at their ear as a response to soothe the sensation [1][4]. Ear pulling is recognized as one of the signs of teething, along with red or swollen gums, excessive drooling, and irritability [1][3].
However, it's essential to understand that ear tugging can also indicate ear infections or other issues. If ear tugging is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms like fever, irritability, or changes in sleep, consulting a pediatrician is advisable [1][3].
Ear infections, caused by bacterial or viral infections that lead to inflammation and fluid buildup in the ear, can significantly impact a baby's hearing if left untreated [2]. Symptoms of an ear infection include persistent and worsening ear pain, ear pulling or rubbing, hearing difficulties, fever above 38°C, fluid or pus-like drainage from the ear, cold symptoms, loss of balance or coordination, difficulty sleeping, and muffled or dulled hearing [5].
On the other hand, teething does not affect a baby's hearing. Teething typically begins between 6 months and 12 months, with some exceptions as early as 4 months or as late as birth (natal teeth) [3]. During this period, symptoms such as red and sore gums, mild fever, flushed cheeks, rash on the face, excessive drooling, increased chewing and gnawing, greater fussiness, sleep disturbances, but not diarrhea, may be observed [4].
To manage teething discomfort, cold teething toys, gum massages, and chilled fruits can help soothe the baby's gums. However, medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen should only be used under pediatric guidance when a baby is extremely fussy or in significant discomfort [4].
The FDA warns against benzocaine and lidocaine-based topical medicines due to serious risks like methemoglobinemia and even death [6]. Therefore, it's crucial to consult a doctor if symptoms worsen or if infection is suspected.
In conclusion, ear tugging in infants is a common behaviour associated with teething. However, it's essential to monitor for other symptoms and consult a pediatrician if necessary to rule out potential ear infections. By understanding the differences between teething and ear infections, parents can provide the best care for their babies during this developmental milestone.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Teething in babies: Symptoms and relief. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/teething/art-20048282
[2] American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery. (2021). Otitis Media. [online] Available at: https://www.enthealth.org/conditions/otitis-media/
[3] National Health Service (NHS). (2021). Teething. [online] Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/teething/
[4] American Academy of Pediatrics. (2021). Teething. [online] Available at: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/teething-tooth-care/Pages/Teething.aspx
[5] American Academy of Family Physicians. (2021). Otitis Media. [online] Available at: https://familydoctor.org/condition/otitis-media/
[6] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021). Over-the-counter teething products. [online] Available at: https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/over-counter-teething-products
- To alleviate teething discomfort in infants, parents can resort to cold teething toys, gum massages, and chilled fruits, but medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen should only be used under pediatric guidance when a baby is extremely fussier or in significant distress.
- Although ear tugging in infants is commonly associated with teething, it's crucial to monitor for other symptoms and consult a pediatrician if necessary, as persistent ear tugging or if accompanied by fever, irritability, or changes in sleep might indicate an ear infection, which can significantly impact a baby's hearing if left untreated.
