Middle ear infections in children
If you’re a parent, it’s important to be aware of these symptoms as middle ear infections are common in children.
Although not a perfect indicator of otitis media, since these symptoms overlap with other illnesses, recognising these middle ear infection symptoms could help you get the medical help you need quickly.
Look out for your child rubbing, tugging or pulling at their ear, as well as them being irritated or having a high temperature. A runny nose, coughing, poor appetite, restless nights and being unresponsive to softly spoken words and quiet sounds are also signs that your child could have a middle ear infection. This final symptom, along with a loss of balance, are likely to be the clearest indications of otitis media.
Middle ear infection complications
It’s not very common for a middle ear infection to cause complications.
But those that do occur can be difficult and serious. In some instances, the infection can spread to the bones beneath the ear, a condition called mastoiditis. In rarer cases still, the infection can spread to the membranes which protect the spinal cord and brain, which is meningitis.
These complications are rare, but it’s worth keeping a careful eye on your child to make sure the middle ear infection passes quickly.
