Ear infections are one of the most common reasons young children see the doctor, and they have a way of showing up at the worst times, often at night and often after a cold. The good news is that many improve on their own, and your pediatrician can help you know when treatment is needed.
This guide covers the signs of an ear infection, what helps, and when to call. It is part of our guide to common childhood illnesses and offers general health information, not a substitute for care from your child’s provider.
What causes ear infections?
Ear infections often follow a cold, when fluid builds up behind the eardrum and becomes infected. Young children are especially prone because of the size and angle of their ear tubes. Most ear infections are uncomfortable but not dangerous, and many clear as the body fights the infection.
Signs your child may have an ear infection
- Ear pain, or tugging and rubbing at an ear
- Fussiness and trouble sleeping, especially when lying down
- A fever
- Trouble hearing or responding to quiet sounds
- Fluid draining from the ear
- A cold that seems to take a turn for the worse
Babies who cannot tell you where it hurts may simply be extra fussy, feed poorly, or sleep less. Trust your sense that something is off.
How ear infections are treated
Not every ear infection needs antibiotics. For many children, especially older ones with milder symptoms, the American Academy of Pediatrics supports a watchful waiting approach, giving the infection a day or two to improve on its own while focusing on pain relief. For younger children or more severe cases, your pediatrician may prescribe an antibiotic. Either way, easing the pain is a priority, and your pediatrician can examine your child’s ears and recommend the right path.
Helping your child feel better
- Comfort for pain and fever. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help. Ask your pediatrician about the right choice and amount, especially for babies. Never give aspirin to children or teens.
- A warm compress. A warm cloth held against the ear can soothe discomfort.
- Fluids and rest. As with most illnesses, staying hydrated and resting helps recovery.
If your child was prescribed antibiotics, give the full course even once they feel better. Fluid can linger in the ear for a few weeks after the infection clears, which is usually normal.
When to call the doctor
- Severe ear pain, or pain that does not ease
- A fever in a baby younger than three months
- Swelling, redness, or tenderness behind the ear
- Fluid or blood draining from the ear
- Symptoms that last more than a day or two, or keep coming back
- Any concern about your child’s hearing
When to be seen at White's Pediatrics
An ear exam is quick, and it takes the guesswork out of a painful night. White’s Pediatrics offers same-day sick visits and welcomes walk-ins at all three clinic locations, so a sore ear does not have to wait.
Open when your child actually gets sick, not just during the workday
Dalton daytime clinic: Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm
Dalton Urgent Care: Monday to Friday, 5pm to 9pm; Saturday and Sunday, 8am to 12 noon
Spanish-speaking staff are available at every location, and all major insurances are accepted, including Georgia Medicaid and PeachCare.
To have your child seen in Dalton, Chatsworth, or Calhoun, call 706-876-2130 or visit whitespediatrics.com.
Frequently asked questions
Does every ear infection need antibiotics?
No. For many children, especially older ones with milder symptoms, pediatricians may recommend watching for a day or two while focusing on pain relief. Younger children or more severe cases may need an antibiotic. Your pediatrician can decide after an exam.
How do I know if my baby has an ear infection?
Babies often cannot point to the pain, so watch for extra fussiness, tugging at an ear, poor sleep or feeding, and fever. An ear exam is the way to confirm it.
Are ear infections contagious?
The ear infection itself is not, but the colds that often lead to them are. Regular handwashing helps reduce the colds that set the stage for ear infections.
Why does my child keep getting ear infections?
Is it normal to have fluid in the ear afterward?
When should I call 911?
Yes. Fluid can linger for a few weeks after the infection clears and usually goes away on its own. Your pediatrician can recheck if you are concerned about hearing.
Can I get a same-day ear check?
Yes. White’s Pediatrics offers same-day visits and walk-ins at all three locations in Dalton, Chatsworth, and Calhoun, with evening and weekend coverage at the Dalton Urgent Care. Call 706-876-2130.
A painful ear does not have to mean a sleepless night. White’s Pediatrics is here for your family in Dalton, Chatsworth, and Calhoun. Call 706-876-2130 or visit whitespediatrics.com to schedule a visit.
For an overview of the other illnesses families see most often, visit our guide to common childhood illnesses.
