A viral or bacterial infection that affects the middle ear — the section of the ear right behind the eardrum — causes an ear infection. These kinds of ear infections are more often seen in children. Chronic and acute ear infections are both likely to be seen. Because of the inflammation and fluid accumulation in the middle ear, ear infections can be painful.
While acute ear infections are short, they are still painful. On the other hand, chronic ear infections are recurring and are not easily solved. They might even cause permanent or notifying damage to the inner ear and middle ear.
Irrespective of the type of infection, it is good to identify the ear infection in the babies. They are sensitive to pain and can have higher damage recorded when compared to adults if the infection is not identified on time. Here are some symptoms and identification methods to identify your baby’s ear infection.
Symptoms of an ear infection
The ear infection symptoms may persist for a longer time or come and go based on the severity. The symptoms may also occur in a single ear or both ears.
- Consistent mild pain in the ear/ears
- Discomfort or uneasiness inside the ears
- Puss formation inside the ear drainage
- A nagging pressure inside of the ears
- Hearing loss or blocked voice experiences
All or some of these symptoms can be experienced by the babies as well during an ear infection. But, they cannot convey it in the same manner as we do. Hence, identifying methods are important for the younger ones.
How can you tell if the child has an ear infection?
Most of the time, ear infections occur between the age group of 3 months to 2 years. In most of these cases, the child might not be able to confess the pain or irritation. Here are the quick identifying factor in such a scenario,
- Continuous fussiness or crying
- Trouble sleeping even with a full stomach
- Pulling the ears or tugging them all the time
- Any fluid draining from the ears
- Mild or severe fever in case of infants and children below two years
- Not responding to quiet sounds or trouble hearing you
Do not worry; most ear infections are curable and can be prevented if all vaccines are given accordingly with the schedule. Checking on your child’s actions from time to time will help you identify any infections. Reach out to your doctor in case of emergency and get your child checked up if you notice any of the ear infection symptoms mentioned above.
*Information shared here is for general purpose. Please take doctors’ advice before taking any decision.
