9 SYMPTOMS OF EAR INFECTION IN CHILDREN

08/01/2021

Ear infections, also called acute otitis media, are a common problem in children. Approximately one-fourth of infants have at least one ear infection by their first birthday. Most ear infections don't cause long-term complications. However, ear infections that happen again and again can lead to serious complications: impaired hearing, speech or developmental delays, spread of infection, tearing of the eardrum.

These following information is what you need to recongise symptoms of this disease and help your child feel better!

Signs and symptoms common in children include:

Ear pain, especially when lying down
Tugging or pulling at an ear
Fussiness, trouble sleeping, crying more than usual
Trouble hearing or responding to sounds
Loss of balance
Fever of 100 F (38 C) or higher
Drainage of fluid from the ear
Headache
Loss of appetite

When to see a doctor

Signs and symptoms of an ear infection can indicate a number of conditions. 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
You observe a discharge of fluid, pus or bloody fluid from the ear

The following tips may reduce the risk of developing ear infections:

Prevent common colds and other illnesses. Teach your children to wash their hands frequently and thoroughly and to not share eating and drinking utensils. Teach your children to cover when they cough or sneeze. If possible, limit the time your child spends in group child care. A child care setting with fewer children may help. Try to keep your child home from child care or school when ill.
Avoid secondhand smoke. Make sure that no one smokes in your home. Away from home, stay in smoke-free environments.
Breast-feed your baby. If possible, breast-feed your baby for at least six months. Breast milk contains antibodies that may offer protection from ear infections.
If you bottle-feed, hold your baby in an upright position. Avoid propping a bottle in your baby's mouth while he or she is lying down.
Talk to your doctor about vaccinations. Ask your doctor about what vaccinations are appropriate for your child. Seasonal flu shots, pneumococcal and other bacterial vaccines may help prevent ear infections.

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