Ear infections are common in children, and they can be caused by bacteria or viruses. The symptoms of an ear infection can vary depending on the type of infection, but some common symptoms include:
- Pain in or around the ear
- Tugging or pulling at the ear
- Fussiness and crying
- Trouble sleeping
- Fever (especially in infants and younger children)
- Fluid draining from the ear
- Clumsiness or problems with balance
- Trouble hearing or responding to quiet sounds
Acute otitis media (AOM) is the most common type of ear infection. Parts of the middle ear are infected and swollen, and fluid is trapped behind the eardrum. This causes pain in the ear, commonly called an earache. Your child might also have a fever.It's important to get an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment. Call your child's doctor if symptoms last for more than a day, symptoms are present in a child less than 6 months of age, ear pain is severe, your infant or toddler is sleepless or irritable after a cold or other upper respiratory infection, or you observe a discharge of fluid, pus, or bloody fluid from the ear.Remember that your doctor cannot diagnose an ear infection over the phone; your child's eardrum must be examined by your doctor to confirm fluid buildup and signs of inflammation. If you suspect your child has an ear infection, seek medical attention promptly.
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