Ear Tubes for Children - Risks and Complications
 Chronic ear infections are common among young children and babies. Pain, trouble hearing, stuffiness in the ears, dizziness, headache, discharge from the ears, and more are all common symptoms of ear infections. While most ear infections can be treated with antibiotics and other medication, your doctor may recommend ear tubes for children with chronic infections or infections that are not clearing up with medication.
Ear tube surgery is common in school-aged children and babies and is generally a simple, effective procedure. However, like any surgical procedure, there are some risks and complications involved with ear tubes. It is reported that up to half of children who receive ear tubes experience one or more complications, including:
- Continued, unresolved infection
- Eardrum thickening or scarring, which can affect hearing
- Failure of the eardrum to properly heal after tube falls out or is removed
- Chronic ear draining
- Continued need for ear plugs
- Rejection of the tube or allergic reaction
- Hearing loss
If your child suffers from chronic ear infections and you are considering ear tube surgery, these are a few factors to keep in mind. While minor complications such as drainage and the need for ear plugs are fairly common, many doctors still recommend ear tubes for children who are suffering long-term ramifications from severe ear infections. Your health care provider will be able to give you more information on this procedure and what the likelihood of your child experiencing and side effects may be.
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