The Signs & Symptoms of an Ear Infection in a Two-Year-Old

Ear infections are common in young children, with more than 90 percent of kids developing an ear infection by the time they reach school age, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. The condition is more common in children than adults because their eustachian tubes can become plugged more easily, which can then result in an infection. In many cases, ear infections develop after a young child has had a cold or other viral infection. Many ear infections will clear on their own without treatment, but bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics.

Pain

• Ear pain is the most common sign of an ear infection, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Many 2-year-olds will be able to tell your their ears hurt, but in some cases you may notice your child is more fussy or irritable than usual. You may also notice your child tugging at or rubbing his ears.

Fever

• A fever is common in children with an ear infection. The fever can typically range from 100 degrees to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Difficulty Sleeping

• A young child with an ear infection may have difficulty sleeping or falling asleep. In most cases, this is because of the pain from the infection.

Drainage

• When your 2-year-old has an ear infection, you may notice fluid draining from the ear. The fluid may be white or yellow in color, or may be tinged with blood. The fluid, which is different in appearance from ear wax, may smell bad. When the ear begins to drain, it can relieve some of the pain that develops because of the infection. However, children with ear drainage should be seen by their pediatrician, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Hearing Loss

• An ear infection can cause temporary hearing loss in children as well. The hearing is impaired because of the fluid buildup behind the eardrum. Hearing will usually return to normal in a week or two.