Medically reviewed to ensure accuracy.
This inflammation then results in redness and bulging in the eardrum, pain and often fever.
Ear infections are one of the most common childhood illnesses, striking kids younger than 4 most often.
What causes ear infections in babies and toddlers?
The fluid becomes a breeding ground for infection-causing germs which could be viral or bacterial.
Allergies that cause congestion may also lead to ear infections.
Some babies and toddlers may be prone tochronic ear infections.
No, an ear infection itself is not contagious.
However, the cold or illness that led to it could be.
Also double-check he’s up-to-date on his vaccinations.
An earache (pain inside or around the ear) is just one symptom of an ear infection.
But just because your child has ear pain doesn’t necessarily mean he has an ear infection.
They could also be resulting from soap or shampoo residue in the ear or by using a cotton-tipped swab.
How do you treat ear infections in babies and toddlers?
Do ear infections go away on their own?
Oftentimes, ear infections go away on their own within two or three days.
When should I take my baby to the doctor for an ear infection?
Call during normal office hours if you suspect an ear infection (as it’s not an emergency).
The release of pressure usually relieves some pain, and the eardrum typically heals itself within a few weeks.
When is it more than an ear infection?
A chronic ear infection may be the result of an acute ear infection that does not clear completely.
While typically temporary lasting four to six weeks OME could lead to temporary hearing loss.
