How to Recognize Signs of an Ear Infection in a Newborn

Ear infections are common in children and infants because of their organs' underdevelopment. It may be difficult to determine if a baby has an ear infection since he or she can't talk. Recognizing the signs is crucial, and, fortunately, they are often obvious when you know what you're doing.

Things You'll Need

• Hypoallergenic soap
• Water
• Rectal thermometer
• Cotton balls
• Alcohol
• Towel
• Petroleum jelly
• Baby pillows
• Penlight

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Instructions

• 1

  Observe your newborn's behavior for signs such as sleeplessness, irritability or too much crying, lethargy and difficulty in feeding.

• 2

  Wash your hands with hypoallergenic soap and water before holding the baby.

• 3

  Wipe the rectal area clean with cotton balls soaked in water. Clean a rectal thermometer from the cleanest to the dirtiest (tip) area with a cotton ball soaked in alcohol. Put petroleum jelly on the tip and insert ½ to 1 inch in the rectum. Check after five minutes.

• 4

  Turn the newborn to the side by supporting him or her with your dominant hand and secure with baby pillows. Check for pooling of ear secretions on either side with the use of a penlight. Sniff for a foul smell if secretions are present.

• 5

  Call or visit a pediatrician immediately if the baby has a fever, if the ears are draining or if the baby seems to be in pain.