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.
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.
Last reviewed September 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Marcie L. Sidman, MD
Last Updated: 9/17/2014
