Ear infections and earache in children

Earaches and ear infections are common in babies and small children and may be associated with pain, discomfort and fever.

Babies and young children are more likely to get middle ear infections than older children because the tubes that connect the middle ear to the throat are smaller. This makes it easier for germs to reach the middle ear and cause an infection.

Most middle ear infections are caused by bacteria or viruses – with around two thirds of infections thought to be linked to both.

Many middle ear infections will clear up on their own in a few days. As with colds and flu, antibiotics don’t always help an ear infection.

If you think your child may have an ear infection, it is best to see a doctor.

Common symptoms of ear infections include:

• • Irritability or restlessness
  • Pulling at their ears or putting their fingers in their ears
  • A fever
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Loss of interest in food
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Trouble hearing
  • Loss of balance
  • Ear pain
  • Redness around the ear
  • A feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear
  • There is swelling behind the ear and the ear is being pushed forward

See your doctor if your child is in pain, unwell or vomiting, has any discharge from their ear (that is not normal ear wax), is experiencing swelling and hearing issues or keeps getting ear infections.

Ways to help your child feel better

• • For pain and fever relief, paracetamol – like Dymadon – can help your child feel better. Always read the label to ensure you give your child the right dose.
  • Make sure that they get enough sleep – the body recovers best when it’s well rested.
  • Children that are unwell may need extra attention – so a cuddle from mum, dad, gran or grandpa never goes astray.

Ask for Dymadon paracetamol at your pharmacy

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