Based on recent research published in the International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, the push and pull cap in a child's water bottle may be causing harm. The Pharmacy Times reported on the findings, and it noted that the caps may increase the chance of ear infections. The negative pressure from sucking may lead to harmful secretions leaking into the middle ear. Researchers discovered that 50 percent of children with ear infections regularly used push and pull caps, while only 24.2 percent of kids without ear infections were found to use water bottles with the caps. Similar results were found among two different study groups, one older and one younger. 

Middle ear infections are a common problem among younger children. In addition to water bottles having an effect on infection rates, the Mayo Clinic detailed that secondhand smoke can also increase the chance of the condition. Since the problem usually clears up on its own, the source noted that pain management is a typical strategy for managing the problem. However, antibiotic medication may be necessary for children's health and wellness in more persistent cases, since chronic ear infections can lead to hearing loss. Ear tubes can also help relieve fluid buildup. 

Should children receive an ear infection, amoxicillin suspension is one potential course of treatment. However, since they may be reluctant to accept it, parents may have an easier time of the situation by making the medicine taste better. Flavored antibiotics can turn a painful situation into something more pleasurable for children, particularly if they can choose the taste and colors their medication comes in. Choice can make illness easier on the parents and kids alike.