How to Tell If Your Child Has an Ear Infection
Ear Pain in Toddlers: What Ontario Parents Need to Know
When your toddler starts tugging at their ear, it's natural to wonder if an ear infection is brewing. Ear pulling can definitely signal an ear infection, but it's not always the culprit. The good news is that most ear issues in toddlers are manageable and clear up well with the right care.
What's going on?
Toddlers pull at their ears for several reasons. Sometimes it's just a new body part they've discovered, or they're tired and self-soothing. But when ear pulling comes with other symptoms, it often points to an ear infection.
Ear infections happen when fluid gets trapped behind the eardrum, usually after a cold or sinus congestion. The fluid becomes a perfect breeding ground for bacteria or viruses. Toddlers get ear infections more often than older kids because their ear tubes are shorter and more horizontal, making it easier for germs to travel up from the throat.
Most ear infections are middle ear infections (otitis media), and they're incredibly common. About 80% of children will have at least one ear infection before their third birthday.
What you might notice
- Pulling, tugging, or batting at the ear
- Increased fussiness or crying, especially when lying down
- Trouble sleeping or staying asleep
- Fever (though not always present)
- Difficulty hearing or responding to sounds
- Fluid draining from the ear
- Loss of appetite
- Balance problems or clumsiness
What helps at home
Pain relief is your main goal while the infection runs its course. Children's acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help with both pain and fever. Always follow the dosing instructions on the package for your child's weight and age.
A warm compress against the ear can provide comfort. Use a clean washcloth soaked in warm water, or try a heating pad on the lowest setting for short periods while you're supervising.
Keep your toddler upright as much as possible when they're awake. The upright position helps fluid drain from the ears naturally. You might notice they feel better during the day and worse at bedtime when lying flat.
Stay on top of hydration, especially if they have a fever. Offer small, frequent sips of water, milk, or their usual beverages.
When to worry
Head to the emergency room if your toddler has a high fever over 39°C (102°F), seems extremely unwell, has severe headache or neck stiffness, or if you notice swelling or redness behind the ear.
You should connect with a doctor or text Arlo if the ear pulling comes with fever, crying that seems worse than usual, trouble sleeping for more than a night or two, or if you're just not sure what's going on. Trust your instincts as a parent. You know your child best, and if something feels off, it's always worth checking.
The takeaway
Ear infections are frustrating but very treatable. Most clear up on their own or with simple treatment, and your little one will be back to their usual self soon.
You can always text Arlo and talk to a provider in 5 minutes!
References
- [Ear infections](https://caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/health-conditions-and-treatments/ear_infections) (Canadian Paediatric Society)
- [Ear infection (middle ear)](https://aboutkidshealth.ca/article?contentid=5&language=english) (AboutKidsHealth, SickKids)
- [When to see a doctor about your child's ear infection](https://ontario.ca/page/ear-infections-children) (Ontario.ca)