Earache and ear infections
These are common in babies and small children. They often follow a cold. It can be difficult to tell whether your child is simply suffering from an earache accompanying a cold, or a more serious ear infection, as the signs are similar.
- Unwell, irritable, or cries a lot.
- Pulls at or rubs their ear.
- Complains of pain.
- Fever.
If not treated, ear infections can cause ruptured ear drums and hearing problems, so it’s important to see your doctor if the signs continue. Sometimes children need several courses of antibiotics to clear the infection.
Persistent ear infections may result in “glue ear”, which is a build up of fluid in the ear. Your child may need an operation to insert grommets (small tubes) to help drain the ear and prevent further infections.
- Never poke anything (like cotton buds) into your child’s ear, because ears don’t need cleaning.
- If there is a build up of wax in their ear, discuss this with your chemist or doctor.
- For fever or pain, give paracetamol as directed on the pack.