Ear Infection Symptoms

EAR INFECTION

DESCRIPTION

Ear infection, an infection that occurs in the space behind the eardrum, is a common reason why your child sees a healthcare provider. Ear infections happen when bacteria or virus infect and trap fluid behind the eardrum, causing pain and swelling or bulging of the eardrum.

Symptoms –

Ear pain

Trouble sleeping

Crying more than usual

Fussiness

Trouble hearing

Loss of balance

Fever

Headache

Loss of appetite

Risk factors –

Common in children of ages 6 months and 2 years

Group child care

Infant feeding

Seasonal

factors

Poor air quality

Alaska native heritage

Cleft palate

Diagnosis and test –

Pneumatic otoscope

Tympanometry

Acoustic reflectometry

Tympanocentesis

Treatment –

Medications

Antibiotic therapy

Drainage