28/01/2026
Ear infections in children: What you need to know
Ear infections are very common in young children. Thankfully, most infections clear up quickly and aren’t usually serious.
The two most common types of ear infections in children are:
- Middle ear infections (otitis media)
- Outer ear infections (otitis externa)
Both types can cause ear pain, and your little one may also have cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose or sore throat.
If you think your child has an ear infection, it’s important to visit your GP. For children with frequent ear infections or hearing difficulties caused by glue ear (fluid in the middle ear), your GP might refer you to an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist.
In some cases, the specialist may recommend a short procedure to insert grommets (small tubes) into your child’s ears. Grommets help drain fluid from the middle ear and can also reduce recurrent ear infections.
At Intercare Day Hospitals, procedures like grommet insertion are performed without the need for an overnight stay. Our child-friendly wards and facilities are designed to ensure your little one’s comfort and safety.
Learn more about preventing and treating ear infections on our Health Hub: https://healthhub.intercare.co.za/2021/01/18/ear-infections-causes-and-treatments/