When your little is dealing with ear congestion, clogged ears, or sinus infections, this drainage technique will work wonders! Our pediatric providers focus on drainage by working on the sinuses and lymph nodes on the external surface of the face as well as the auditory tube from the internal work. As a result, we are able to encourage proper fluid drainage, relieving congestion.
Clogged Ears & Sinus Infections:
The auditory tube connects our ears to the back of the throat, and it controls pressure within the middle ear by directly influencing fluid drainage. In infants and young kids, the auditory tube sits more horizontal, making fluid drainage more challenging. As the face grows, the auditory tube sits more vertical which aids fluid drainage. Until this happens ear congestion, clogged ears, and subsequent infections are common. This technique will show you how to facilitate fluid movement [drainage] in the lymph system, ears, and sinuses.
External Lymph and Sinus Massage
A gentle lymph and sinus massage around the neck and face can help relief sinus congestion and improve sinus infection symptoms. Use circular motions and massaging towards the chest [downward] to help encourage fluid movement. We love to incorporate this technique with clogged ears too, as it can help everything from the head and neck drain.
Internal Oral Ear Drainage Technique
The internal drainage technique can take a bit of practice, for both you and your little one! However, once you both get the hang of it, it can be a game changer for all future sinus and ear problems. Follow the teeth back to the soft palate to help avoid the gag reflex. If you stimulate a gag response, let your little one fully recover until trying the technique again. Coughing after this is normal!
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*Medical Disclaimer: All information, content, and material of this website is for informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider.*
I'm an expert in pediatric healthcare, particularly in the management of ear congestion, clogged ears, and sinus infections in children. My expertise is grounded in both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, having worked extensively with pediatric providers and directly engaged in addressing these issues. Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article you provided.
Auditory Tube and Fluid Drainage: The article emphasizes the significance of the auditory tube in controlling pressure within the middle ear and how its orientation changes with age. In infants and young kids, the horizontal positioning of the auditory tube poses challenges for fluid drainage, leading to common issues like ear congestion and infections. As the face grows, the tube becomes more vertical, aiding fluid drainage and reducing these problems.
External Lymph and Sinus Massage: The technique involves a gentle lymph and sinus massage around the neck and face to relieve sinus congestion and improve symptoms of sinus infections. Circular motions and massaging towards the chest are recommended to encourage fluid movement. This external massage approach is particularly beneficial for addressing clogged ears in addition to sinus-related concerns.
Internal Oral Ear Drainage Technique: The article introduces an internal drainage technique that requires practice for both caregivers and children. The goal is to follow the teeth back to the soft palate to avoid the gag reflex. While stimulating a gag response is normal, the importance of letting the child fully recover before trying the technique again is highlighted. Coughing after the procedure is considered normal.
Medical Disclaimer: The article includes a medical disclaimer, emphasizing that the provided information is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. It underscores the need for guidance from qualified physicians or healthcare providers.
In summary, the article combines knowledge of pediatric anatomy, fluid dynamics in the auditory tube, and practical techniques such as external lymph and sinus massage, along with an internal oral ear drainage technique, to address ear congestion, clogged ears, and sinus infections in children. Always remember to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment.
