Understanding Middle Ear Infections
Call the doctor’s office if you notice any signs of a middle ear infection.
Middle ear infections are most common in children under age 5. Crankiness, a slight fever, tugging or rubbing the ear may all be signs that your child has a middle ear infection. It is important to call the doctor if you notice these or any of the signs listed below.
Normal ear
Middle ear infections occur behind the eardrum (the thin sheet of tissue that passes sound waves between the outer and middle ear). These infections are usually due to bacteria or viruses, which are often related to a recent cold or allergy problem.
Signs of Middle Ear Problems
A temperature over 101.0°F and cold symptoms
Severe ear pain, or an ear that feels hot to the touch
Any kind of discharge from the ear
Persistent itching in the ear
Aching or ringing ears, dizziness, or nausea after an injury to the head
Ear pain that gets worse or doesn’t go away after a few days
When to Call Your Doctor
Call the doctor's office if your otherwise healthy child has any of the signs or symptoms described below:
In an infant under 3 months old, a rectal temperatuer of 100.4°F (38.0°C) or higher
In a child 3 to 36 months, a rectal temperature of 103°F (39.4°C) or higher
In a child of any age who has a temperature of 103°F (39.4°C) or higher
A fever that lasts more than 24-hours in a child under 2 years old, or for 3 days in a child 2 years or older
Your child has had a seizure caused by the fever
Rapid breathing or shortness of breath
A stiff neck or headache
Difficulty swallowing
Persistent brown, green, or bloody mucus
Signs of dehydration, which include severe thirst, dark yellow uring, infrequent urination, dull or sunken eyes, dry skin, and dry or cracked lips
Your child still doesn't look right to you, even after taking a non-aspirin pain reliever