Ear infections are quite common in children. There are two primary types of ear infections: the middle ear infection and the outer ear infection. The middle ear infection (or otitis media) occurs when fluid builds up behind the eardrum and becomes infected. The outer ear infection (also called swimmer’s ear) mainly affects the ear canal.
An ear infection, especially with a child, can present a challenge in simply diagnosing the problem (without a health care provider, that is). Some kids may not show all the signs and so they suffer quietly, or they may be in so much pain that they are difficult to handle. This post will cover ear infection symptoms, causes, and treatment to help you stay informed.
Ear Infection Symptoms
Ear infection symptoms can vary depending on a child’s age and the type of infection. Some signs are obvious, while others are easy to miss, especially in infants who cannot describe what they feel.
Ear infection symptoms commonly include:
- Pain or pressure in the ear
- Trouble hearing or responding to sounds
- Draining fluid
- A fever
- Loss of appetite
- Balance issues
Babies and toddlers may also tug on their ears, be unusually fussy, and have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. You should take your child to a health care provider right away if you notice a high fever or pus-like fluid.
What Causes Ear Infections?
The main causes of ear infections are viruses and bacteria entering the middle ear and causing the eustachian tube to become swollen or blocked. This can sometimes happen during a cold or allergy flare-up. In this case, fluid becomes trapped behind the eardrum, allowing germs to grow. Outer ear infections are caused in a similar way, with water getting trapped in the ear canal. They can also be caused by minor injuries that go untreated.
Why Are Kids So Prone to Ear Infections?
Kids are more likely to experience ear infections because their Eustachian tubes are shorter and they sit more horizontally. That makes liquid drainage more difficult and germ build-up more common.
When to See a Health Care Provider
Typically, if symptoms do not improve within 48 to 72 hours or if they worsen, you should contact a health care provider. If your child is younger than six months, has a fever that will not go down, or seems unusually irritable, you should see a provider sooner.
Your provider will likely start with a basic exam. They will use a tool called an otoscope and look inside the ear, then they will assess whether the eardrum is swollen or if there’s fluid present. From there, they will provide a care plan.
Ear Infection Treatments
Treatment will depend on the age of your child as well as the severity of symptoms. There are ear infections that may clear up on their own, but there are others that will require antibiotics.
In mild cases, a provider may recommend you keep an eye on your child while managing pain and fever with safe doses of acetaminophen or ibuprofen. For bacterial infections or very young children, the provider may prescribe antibiotics to help fend off the infection.
Have Your Child’s Ear Infection Treated at The Urgency Room
Many ear infections improve with time and home care. However, some cases require prompt evaluation and treatment. If you or your child is experiencing severe ear pain, high fever, drainage, swelling, or symptoms that are not improving after a few days, visit your nearest Urgency Room for quick care.
We are open 365 days a year at convenient locations in Eagan, Woodbury, Golden Valley, and Vadnais Heights. Our board-certified emergency providers can evaluate ear infection symptoms quickly, often faster than a traditional emergency room visit. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Get the care your child needs today at The Urgency Room.