Symptoms
- Ear pain — young children may pull or rub the ear, or just be generally unsettled
- Fever
- Reduced hearing or feeling of blockage
- Discharge from the ear (if eardrum has perforated) — often relieves pain
- Irritability, poor sleep, reduced feeding
Do Antibiotics Help?
Most ear infections are caused by viruses following a cold and resolve on their own within 3 days. Current guidance (NICE) recommends a 'watch and wait' approach with pain relief for most children, reserving antibiotics for: children under 2 with infection in both ears, ear discharge, or if the child is very unwell or not improving after 3 days.Glue Ear (Otitis Media with Effusion)
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| What it is | Fluid remains in the middle ear after infection clears, without active infection |
| Main symptom | Hearing loss — may affect speech development and behaviour |
| Natural course | Resolves spontaneously in most children within 3 months |
| Grommets | Considered if persistent (>3 months) hearing loss affecting development |
Seek Urgent Medical Care IfSwelling or redness behind the ear (possible mastoiditis), severe headache with neck stiffness, high fever with drowsiness, or facial weakness — these suggest a rare but serious complication requiring urgent treatment.
Pain Relief FirstRegular paracetamol or ibuprofen at the correct dose for age/weight is the most important treatment for ear infection discomfort — often more helpful than waiting for antibiotics, which don't relieve pain quickly even when appropriate.
Can ear infections cause permanent hearing loss?
Rarely, from a single infection. Recurrent infections or prolonged glue ear can affect hearing and speech development, which is why persistent cases are monitored and sometimes treated with grommets.
Are ear infections contagious?
The infection itself isn't contagious, but the cold or respiratory virus that often precedes it is.
Should my child avoid swimming with grommets?
Generally swimming is fine, but diving and putting the head fully underwater without earplugs is often advised against — follow your ENT surgeon's specific advice.
Medical Disclaimer: This page is for general education only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.