Diagnosis of Middle Ear Infection

You will be asked about your child's symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. The doctor will ask about signs such as ear pain or drainage. An ear infection may be suspected based on symptoms. A scope may be used to look inside the ear. An infection will cause redness, swelling, or pus around the eardrum. A small puff of air may also be passed into the ear. The eardrum should move a bit with the air. Fluid or swelling around the eardrum will make the eardrum stiff. This would suggest an infection.

It may be hard to tell the difference between a new infection or one that has lasted some time. Treatment can differ between theses types.

Other tests may include:

• Tympanometry—A soft plug is placed at the opening of the ear. It can measure movement of the eardrum.
• Acoustic reflectometry—This test measures fluid in the middle ear.
• Hearing test—A hearing test may be ordered in cases of repeat ear infections or if there are signs of hearing impairment, such as speaking in a louder voice, sitting closer to the television or turning up the volume.
• Tympanocentesis—A needle is used to withdraw fluid or pus from the middle ear under local or general anesthesia. This fluid can then be cultured to determine if bacteria are present in the fluid. After the bacteria are cultured, the lab can determine which drugs are best for treatment. However, the fluid does not always have bacteria in it.