How do I Know if My Child has an Ear Infection?

Ear infections are fairly common in childhood, but their impact can be significant. If you’re concerned that your child might have an ear infection, your main priority will be to help them to feel better, which might involve a visit to the doctor. Here, we look at the common symptoms of ear infections, some underlying causes, and ways to manage ear infections when your child presents with symptoms.

What are Common Symptoms of an Ear Infection?

It can be tricky to understand the source of your child’s discomfort, especially if they are very young, or don’t have the language to express what they’re feeling. Try to look out for symptoms such as crying more than normal, tugging at the ears, difficulty sleeping, and behaviour that doesn’t seem normal for your child. You might also notice a clear fluid or white discharge seeping from the ear, that may also have an unpleasant odour. Being able to spot these signs at the earliest opportunity will mean you can seek your doctor’s advice, and avoid any potential complications that can crop up with untreated infections.

What Might Cause an Ear Infection in My Child?

Bacterial and viral infections are common culprits, often occurring after a cough or cold (which can mean that ear infections are more common in the winter months). Environmental factors – including exposure to dust and pollution – can make your child more susceptible to getting an ear infection, too. Exposure to the water – typically from swimming – can also be a cause. Additionally, certain genetic conditions may mean your child is more vulnerable to recurrent ear infections.

Will an Ear Infection Always Affect Hearing?

Not all ear infections will lead to temporary hearing loss, but often, an infection can impact a child's ability to hear as they normally would, albeit for a short period. If hearing infections are recurrent, and hearing loss is significant or prolonged, you might find that your child’s speech and language development are impacted. As a parent, you’ll be the best person to notice if your child’s behaviour is not ‘normal’ for them, especially in relation to listening, responding and interacting with you and other people. If you’re at all concerned that something isn’t quite right, then it’s really important that you visit your doctor at the earliest opportunity, so they can investigate further.

At What Point Should I Call the Doctor?

It’s a good idea to call your doctor as soon as you suspect that your child might have an ear infection. At our clinic, our paediatricians will be able to assess your child’s situation, and refer you to an ENT specialist for a diagnosis if necessary. Treatment options can include antibiotics and pain relief, and these will be discussed with you during your child’s appointment, based on the severity and type of infection.

Can I Help Prevent Ear Infections in My Child?

If you’re grappling with recurrent ear infections in your child, understanding preventive measures is key. While it’s inevitable that your child will pick up coughs and colds, you can try to keep an eye on any developing respiratory conditions as these can make children more vulnerable to ear infections. A consultation with a child ENT specialist can help you to explore treatments for recurrent infections, and manage any resulting hearing loss. A personalised care plan will always aim to support your child's unique needs in the right way.

What Are Other Benefits of Visiting a Child ENT Specialist?

Our ENT paediatric consultants will be able to discuss your child’s symptoms with you, while carrying out a thorough examination of your child's ears. Treatment might include pain relief medication or antibiotics, but this will depend on your child’s symptoms, as very often ear infections will clear up on their own.

Visiting Our London Children’s Clinic

If you have any concerns about ear infections, hearing loss or other childhood illnesses, our specialist paediatric team at The Hearing Clinic, Kensington can help. We also see babies and children from the age of six months for hearing tests and hearing assessments. To make an appointment please call (020) 7244 4200 or make an appointment online.