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Signs of Ear Infections

Most people will experience at least one ear infection in their life. With 3 of 4 children suffering from the ailment before they reach the age of 3, it is a very common early childhood illness. Learning the signs of ear infections can help you diagnose your child, and yourself. Seeing your doctor if you or your child are experiencing the symptoms should generally not be treated as an emergency, but it can help to relieve your pain and discomfort.

  1. Pain in the Ear

    • Pain is the most common sign of an ear infection. The discomfort is our body's way of telling us there is a problem; in this case, that there is an infection inside the ear. The pain will typically worsen when noise is heard, causing the infected person to wince or cry even at sounds with a low volume.

    Feeling of Ear Blockage

    • When the ear becomes infected, some of the parts of the organ may swell due to the irritation. This can cause the passage to become narrow. Earwax and other debris can then easily become trapped, making it feel as if there is something blocking the canal. This can also have an effect on your hearing, which is why many find it difficult to hear when they have an ear infection.

    Dizziness

    • Most of your body's balance mechanisms lie in the ears. When an infection sets in, your balance may become offset by it. This can contribute to dizziness and vertigo, and may make you feel as if you cannot stand up straight. The sensation is usually increased when you try to get up from a sitting or lying position.

    Fever

    • Fever can be one of the primary signs of an infection. When you get an ear infection, it is likely that you will have a fever of 100 degrees or higher. When combined with the other signs of ear infections, your body heat can help signal that there is a problem inside the body.

    Common Signs in Children

    • When children are not old enough to tell you what hurts, it is important to know the signs of an ear infection. Along with the most common symptoms for adults, children will tend to cry without reason and more than usual, pull at their ear, have trouble hearing and sleeping, and become irritable.

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