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Ear Infection

August 2, 2011

Ear Infection

Ear infections occur most often in children six years or younger, but may happen at any age. These may occur after a cold or sore throat. If not treated, ear infections may cause a serious hearing problem or deafness.

An ear infection needs to be treated right away! Once a person has had an ear infection, he or she is more likely to get another one.

Symptoms of an ear infection are:

  • Pain in the ear.

  • Pulling or tugging at the ear by a child.

  • Fever, headache.

  • Irritability – (a child may be crabby).

  • Swelling in front or back of the ear.
Treatment suggestions

  • If the doctor orders an antibiotic, make sure the antibiotic is taken for as long as the doctor says! (Even if a person feels better, he or she may still have the infection.)

  • Drink plenty of fluids while the infection is present.

  • Children should not be given aspirin!

  • A child with a fever should be kept in the house until the fever has been gone for 24 hours.

  • Never put anything in the ear. A cotton swab or bobby pin can put a hole in the ear drum or start an infection.

  • If symptoms are not gone after the antibiotics are taken, return to your doctor.
This information is provided only as an informational resource for consumers. For advice regarding a specific medical condition, please consult your personal physician.


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