Ear infections frequently develop during or shortly after another infection, such as a cold or sore throat. They may also happen because of nasal allergy symptoms.

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Symptoms include:

• Ear pain ( Note: Children who can talk may tell you that their ear hurts. Babies may tug or rub at the ear or face or become irritable.)
• Fever
• Hearing loss, which resolves with appropriate treatment
• Disturbed sleep
• Irritability
• Decreased appetite or difficulty feeding
• Drainage from the ear (This may appear as blood, clearish fluid, pus, or as a dry crust on the outer portion of the ear after sleeping.)
• Difficulty with balance, frequent falling, sensations of lightheadedness
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Chills

Some children with ear infection, particularly chronic otitis, have no symptoms. Their condition may be discovered on examination for some other problem.