Signs Your Child Has an Ear Infection

Ear infections are a common childhood illness; in fact, the National Institute of Health has estimated that five out of six children will have had one or more ear infections by the time they turn three. Ear infections can be caused by either viruses or bacteria. The cause of your child's ear infection will determine how it's treated at Surfside Pediatrics in Ventura, CA, which is why it's important to make an appointment with one of our providers any time your child is exhibiting the following signs of an ear infection.

Pain and drainage

Pain originating in your child's ear can be a clear sign to both you and your Ventura pediatrician that an ear infection is present, especially if it follows a cold or other viral illness. The pain may be worse when lying down due to the increased pressure from the change in position. Fluid may also drain from the ear; it can be clear to yellowish and may contain blood depending on the type of infection and where in the ear it's located.

Other physical signs

Younger children who have ear infections but can't articulate how they feel or where it hurts may show their symptoms to you or your Ventura pediatrician in other ways. They may pull or rub their ears or be unable to hear as well as normal. They may also seem off-balance due to the pressure within the inner ear. Some children with an ear infection will run a fever, typically over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Irritability and crying more than usual can also accompany other symptoms of illness, including ear infections.

If your child is showing signs of an ear infection, or you're concerned about any other illnesses, contact Surfside Pediatrics in Ventura, CA to make an appointment with one of our skilled, caring pediatric health providers.