If your baby is fussy, cries more than usual, and tugs at their ear, an ear infection may be brewing. Ear infections and babies go together like milk and cookies. They can be caused by fluid behind the eardrum, an infection in the middle part of the ear, or an infection in the ear canal (also known as swimmer's ear). Kids under 5 years old are at risk for ear infections, especially after upper respiratory infections. In fact, five out of six children will have an ear infection before their 3rd birthday.

 

 

 

Signs and Symptoms

• ear pain (especially when chewing, sucking, or lying down)
• redness or swelling of the eardrum or outer ear
• pulling or rubbing the ears
• leakage from the ear
• difficulty hearing
• ear fullness or popping
• fussiness
• vomiting
• headache
• fever

 

What to Do

• Call the doctor to have your child's ears
• Give acetaminophenor ibuprofen as needed to relieve pain (check instructions carefully for correct amount).
• If an antibiotic is prescribed, make sure your child finishes all of the medicine as instructed.

 

Seek Medical Care If

• your child appears ill while on antibiotics
• the ear drains pus-like fluid or blood
• the ear pain worsens
• there is swelling and redness behind the ear
• the ear begins to stick out from the side of the head

 

Think Prevention!

• Make sure your kids get the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV)and the flu vaccine, which may reduce their odds of getting middle ear infections.
• Do not clean earswith cotton swabs or sharp objects.
• Avoid secondhand smoke and anyone with a cold (both can increase the likelihood of ear infections).
• Make sure kids get in the habit of washing their hands, especially after playing around other kids.
• Don't give a bottle when your baby is lying down.
• Ask the doctor if earplugs and alcohol ear drops are a good idea for a child who swims a lot.