Ear Infection
Ear infection, an infection that occurs in the space behind the eardrum, is a common reason why your child sees a healthcare provider. Ear infections happen when bacteria or virus infect and trap fluid behind the eardrum, causing pain and swelling/bulging of the eardrum. Treatments include antibiotics, pain-relieving medications and placement of ear tubes.
What is an ear infection?
The commonly used term “ear infection” is known medically as acute otitis media or a sudden infection in the middle ear (the space behind the eardrum). Anyone can get an ear infection — children as well as adults — although ear infections are one of the most common reasons why young children visit healthcare providers.
In many cases, ear infections clear up on their own. Your healthcare provider may recommend a medication to relieve pain. If the ear infection has worsened or not improved, your healthcare provider may prescribe an antibiotic. In children younger than the age of two years, an antibiotic is usually needed for ear infections.
It’s important to see your healthcare provider to make sure the ear infection has healed or if you or your child has ongoing pain or discomfort. Hearing problems and other serious effects can occur with ongoing ear infections, frequent infections and when fluid builds up behind the eardrum.
Ear infection Symptoms
The onset of signs and symptoms of ear infection is usually rapid.
Children
Signs and symptoms common in children include:
Ear pain, especially when lying down
Tugging or pulling at an ear
Trouble sleeping
Crying more than usual
Fussiness
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
Adults
Common signs and symptoms in adults include:
Ear pain
Drainage of fluid from the ear
Trouble hearing
When to seek care
Signs and symptoms of an ear infection can indicate several 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
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