The pain results from the fact that you have infected fluid in your middle ear, which presses on the eardrum. [2] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source This pain may also spread. You may experience a headache or neck pain, for instance.
Some people also hear a ringing or buzzing in their ears that comes and goes.
They may also be more irritable or have difficulty sleeping.
In babies, watch to see if they respond to soft sounds as well as they normally do.
Balance problems are more likely to be a symptom for kids than adults, but you should take note if you are having balance problems along with other symptoms.
Other kids may notice their ear feeling “full,” or the ear may pop more often.
For babies under half a year old, see a doctor when symptoms appear. For children and adults who’ve had symptoms last more than 24 hours, call your doctor for advice.
If your child’s temperature goes over 100. 4°F (38°C), it’s time to go to the doctor.
With your child, pay attention to see if they are in more pain than seems normal for an ear infection. For instance, if your child won’t stop crying, that may be a reason to talk to the child’s doctor.
If you are having drainage, you should avoid swimming until the infection is cleared up.
Your doctor might also use tympanometry. This test checks to see if there’s fluid in the eardrum with pressure and air. With persistent ear infections, you or your child might have a hearing test to see if there’s hearing loss.
In addition, ear infections are not contagious, though viruses that can accompany ear infections sometimes are. Even after ear infections clear up, fluid can stay in the middle ear. It can remain there for a couple of months. However, you can help with the pain by using ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Be sure to use children’s versions of these drugs for your child.
This condition is generally treated in the hospital.
The presence of the tiny hole in the eardrum will not affect hearing. Tubes will remain in place six to 18 months, depending on the type used. [24] X Research source
Group daycares are a hot spot for ear infections. When your kids run around with other kids, some of whom may have colds, they are more likely to a catch a cold themselves. Be sure to get the recommended vaccinations, such as the flu vaccine once year, as that can protect against infections that could lead to ear infections.
Similarly, if you or your child is prone to allergies, you are more likely to develop an ear infection when allergy counts are higher.
You can take antihistamines to help reduce your allergies, as well as trying to avoid spending long periods outdoors when allergy counts are high. Stay hydrated to thin mucus and consider using a steam treatment or humidifier to help loosen mucus. [32] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Family Physicians Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities Go to source If your allergies are severe, talk to your doctor about other treatments.
Bad air quality can have similar effects as cigarette smoke, increasing the risk for ear infections. [34] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
