Middle Ear Infections

The middle ear is the space, usually filled with air, behind the eardrum. When a child has middle ear fluid (otitis media with effusion), it means that a watery or mucous-like fluid has collected in the middle ear. Otitis media means middle ear inflammation, and effusion means fluid.

Symptoms

Symptoms of otitis media include:

Pulling or rubbing the ears because of ear pain

Fever

Fussiness or irritability

Fluid leaking from the ear

Changes in appetite or sleeping patterns

Trouble hearing

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask detailed questions about your child's symptoms, previous ear infections, family history of allergies, and potential exposure to environmental allergens.

The doctor will then examine your child's ears with an otoscope, which will allows the doctor to see the eardrum and look for inflammation and fluid build-up.

Treatments

Apply a warm cloth or warm water bottle.

Use over-the-counter pain relief drops for ears.

Take over-the counter medications for pain or fever, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. DO NOT give aspirin to children.

Use prescription ear drops to relieve pain.