Symptoms Of Your Child's Ear Infection

Wondering if your child might be dealing with an ear infection?

While you will certainly know when you’re dealing with an ear infection; unfortunately kids, particularly newborns and toddlers, can’t tell you that they are experiencing ear pain. Ear infections are incredibly common in young children, with five out of six children experiencing at least one ear infection by the time they turn three years old. Know the warning signs and when to turn to your pediatrician for treatment.

They may have trouble sleeping

It’s not too surprising that with pressure building up in the middle ear due to bacteria that your child may get fussy or even throw a tantrum about going to bed. Children with ear infections often toss and turn and feel worse when they lie down. If your little one suddenly starts crying when they lie down this could be a sign of an ear infection.

They tug at their ears

While a toddler won’t be able to tell you that their ear hurts, they can show you. You may be able to discern whether your child could have an ear infection by whether or not they are tugging and pulling at their ears. Again, the pressure inside the ears can be incredibly uncomfortable and even painful, and children might fidget with their ears to minimize the discomfort.

They could have a fever

If a child has a middle ear infection, commonly, they could also have a fever. If your child’s ear looks red, if they tug at their ear and seem fussier lately, and they have a fever over 100 degrees F then it’s probably time to see a pediatrician.

Their ears might drain

Another telltale sign of an ear infection in your little one is the presence of fluid or pus draining from the ear. If there is the presence of blood in the fluid this might be a sign of a ruptured eardrum. While the eardrum will heal on its own, it’s still a good idea to see your pediatrician if pus or fluid is draining from your child’s ear.

If your child is displaying symptoms of an ear infection, or if you’re concerned about your child’s recurring ear infections, it’s important to talk with your pediatrician. A pediatrician will be able to dispense the proper medication and discuss other ways to reduce your child’s risk of developing future infections.

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  • "“Very satisfied with the care my child receives with Dr. McAfee. We’ve been seeing Dr. McAfee for years. She is like a trusted friend. Highly recommend Acton Road Pediatrics.”"
    Lisa/Pleasant Grove
  • "“Nothing worse than getting a call that your child is sick. But being able to call Acton Road Pediatrics and get them seen that day makes all the difference. Dr. Breedlove was so kind and accommodating. She put me at ease and took good care of my daughter.”"
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  • "“I can’t imagine anyone but Dr. Moore as our pediatrician. We recently moved to the Birmingham area and heard a lot about Acton Road Pediatrics. Happy to say that all of the recommendations were spot on. Friendly staff, efficient processes, respectful of our time. Just a great experience all the way around.”"
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  • "“We love Dr. Frees and her entire staff. She is down to earth and has a great bedside manner. They are like an extended family. Thanks to everyone for taking such great care of my children.”"
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  • "“Dr. Breedlove is amazing! She is great with her patients and spends as much time as needed with you to get all questions answered and also just to get to know you. You’re not just a number to her! You can tell she truly cares about her patients! I would recommend her to anyone!”"
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  • "“Dr. McAfee and her staff are amazing and I even switched my daughter from her pediatrician to be seen by Dr. McAfee exclusively. She takes care and remembers you every single time. I wouldn’t trust anyone else with the care of our family.”"
    Cameron/Bluff Park
  • "“I’ll keep this simple. Dr. Moore is the best pediatrician by a long shot. I recently transferred my son’s care to her. The office staff is so friendly! I always leave feeling so much better in every way. I’ll never use anyone else for my son. If you need a great pediatrician to help you with your kid’s health and wellness do yourself a favor and meet this doctor!”"
    Lydia/Mountain Brook
  • "“My twins had their first visit with Dr. Breedlove and it was a delight. She immediately made me feel very comfortable and it felt as if she had been their doctor for years. I am very happy to have found a pediatrician that I feel I can trust with the care of my children.”"
    Monica/Hoover
  • "“Great experience! My daughter got sick at school and I was able to make a same day appointment with Acton Road Pediatrics and got in right away. The front desk staff and the medical assistant were very nice and helpful. Dr. Frees was great, gave realistic expectations and timelines. I’m so glad that we chose Dr. Frees as our pediatrician.”"
    Eleanor/Chelsea
  • "“Dr. McAfee is a great doctor! She’s very understanding and listens to your concerns. She takes time with my son to help him with his health issues! I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a pediatrician.”"
    Julie/Bessemer
  • "“As a first time parent I was really nervous. The staff and Dr. Breedlove were all very friendly and helpful. I especially loved how Dr. Breedlove really took her time to explain everything with us. The visit was great and the doctor’s demeanor has really put my husband and me at ease. I’ve told my New Mom group all about Acton Road Pediatrics!!”"
    Payton/Gardendale
  • ""Great medical office, wonderful, warm experience from start to finish. Appreciate Dr. Moore taking time to go over the diagnosis clearly and treatment options. Many thanks to everyone at Acton Road Pediatrics.""
    Angela/Birmingham
  • "“Dr. Frees is incredible. Not only has she taken great care of my children, but also she is lovely to speak with at every appointment. It’s rare to find a doctor that combines such personal touches and care for a patient as a person with outstanding quality of medical care. I highly recommend Dr. Frees!”"
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