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Does Your Child Have Ear Pain?
If so, it might be an ear infection (also known as acute otitis media)
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Go to the Emergency department
If your child has a fever and is less than 3 months of age, take your child to the emergency room
Book an Appointment with Your Health Care Provider
If your child is between 3 – 6 months of age and has a fever
What is
Acute Otitis Media
Acute Otitis Media (AOM) is an ear infection caused by viruses or bacteria. It usually resolves quickly with or without antibiotics.
The infection occurs in the middle ear when the fluids don’t drain properly, leading to growth of bacteria and/or viruses.
Many parents feel nervous or uneasy when their child has ear pain. However, it is important to remain calm.
Looking for
Signs my child may have an ear infection
Your child does not need to have all of these signs to have an ear infection.
Your child may have an ear infection even if they don’t have all of these signs.
Common Signs
Ear Pulling
Ear Pain
Crying/upset
Fever
Here’s What You Can Do
Rest at home and monitoring
Recommended if your child has the following signs
Alert & Active
Pain Medication is Working
Able to Sleep & Eat
Temperature less than 39C (102F)
Mild Ear Ache/Pain
Ill for less than 48 Hours
Book an appointment with your health care provider
Recommended if your child has the following signs
Child is Upset or Can't Settle
Fluid Leaking From Ear
Severe Ear Ache/Pain
Pain Medication isn't working
High Fever Despite Medications
Ill for greater than 48 Hours
Unable to Sleep or Eat
Go to the emergency department
Recommended if your child has the following signs
If your child has a fever and is less than 3 months of age, take your child to the emergency room
Febrile Seizure Occurs
Ear Infection Detected?
What You Can Do While Resting at Home
Children with mild ear infection symptoms can be watched at home for 24-48 hours before seeking medical attention to see if symptoms get better on their own. Pain medication (e.g. acetaminophen, such as children’s Tylenol, Advil, or generic equivalent) can be given to help decrease ear pain/discomfort. Always follow the instructions on the medication.
Being Smart With Using
Antibiotics
Your health care provider may prescribe antibiotics for your child. Antibiotics may be helpful in making your child feel better, but they should only be used when necessary. Only ear infections caused by bacteria should be treated with antibiotics.
If your health care provider prescribes antibiotics, always follow the directions provided. Do not exceed recommended dosages and always take the entire course of antibiotics prescribed by your health care provider.
Updated in 2023.
This Infographic was brought to you by ARCHE, ECHO, and TREKK
