24/11/2025
How to Know If Your Toddler Has an Ear Infection
Ear infections are very common in toddlers, especially during cold or school season. Here are the signs parents should watch for:
👂 1. Tugging or pulling the ear
If your child keeps touching or pulling one ear repeatedly, it may be due to pain or pressure inside.
😣 2. Sudden irritability or crying at night
Ear pain becomes worse when lying down, so they may wake up crying more than usual.
🌡️ 3. Fever
A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher often accompanies ear infections.
🗣️ 4. Reduced hearing or not responding
You may notice they don’t respond when you call them or they increase the TV volume. Fluid in the ear can reduce hearing temporarily.
🍽️ 5. Poor appetite
Swallowing hurts when the ear is infected, so they may refuse food or breastmilk.
🤢 6. Vomiting or diarrhea
The ear and throat share nerves; irritation can sometimes cause stomach upset.
💤 7. Difficulty sleeping
They may toss, turn, or cry due to pressure in the ear.
👃 8. Runny nose or cough
Ear infections often follow a cold, catarrh, or blocked nose.
💧 9. Fluid or pus coming from the ear
This is a sign of a more serious infection — see a doctor immediately.
When to Seek Medical Help
✔ If symptoms last more than 1–2 days
✔ If the fever is high
✔ If there is ear discharge
✔ If the child seems in severe pain
✔ If the child is less than 6 months old
Remember: Ear infections can be treated easily, but leaving them untreated can affect your child’s hearing and speech development. Early detection is key. 💛
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