How do ear infections affect speech and language development?
Frequent ear infections in infancy and early childhood are linked with language delay. If speech is not heard correctly in these early years, it cannot be produced correctly. Overuse of antibiotics can lead to drug-resistant bacteria. Ear tubes often help to prevent recurrence of the infection. There is strong evidence in the research that children with ear infections have allergies or sensitivities to dairy products. A change in diet may be all that is needed.