Understanding Middle Ear Infections
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Call the doctor’s office if you notice any signs of a middle ear infection.
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Middle ear infections are most common in children under age 5. Crankiness, a slight fever, tugging or rubbing the ear may all be signs that your child has a middle ear infection. It is important to call the doctor if you notice these or any of the signs listed below.
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What Are Middle Ear Infections?
Middle ear infections occur behind the eardrum (the thin sheet of tissue that passes sound waves between the outer and middle ear). These infections are usually due to bacteria or viruses, which are often related to a recent cold or allergy problem.
Signs of Middle Ear Problems
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A temperature over 101.0°F and cold symptoms
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Severe ear pain, or an ear that feels hot to the touch
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Any kind of discharge from the ear
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Persistent itching in the ear
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Aching or ringing ears, dizziness, or nausea after an injury to the head
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Ear pain that gets worse or doesn’t go away after a few days
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Date Last Reviewed:
1/15/2007
Date Last Modified:
2/14/2008