Ear infections are the most common illness in kids. Almost every child will have at least one ear infection by the age of 5. What do you do when your child complains of ear pain?
Ear pain in children is most often caused by a middle ear infection. These infections often follow an upper respiratory illness, like a cold or the flu. Common symptoms include fever, ear pain and irritability, like not sleeping through the night. It is possible for the buildup of pressure from fluid and infection behind the eardrum to cause the eardrum to rupture. In this situation you will most likely see drainage from the ear.
What should you do if you suspect your child has an ear infection?
- Treat the pain. Ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are best.
- Have a doctor look in your child’s ear to confirm an ear infection.
- Decide with your doctor...
