Symptoms

The onset of signs and symptoms of ear infection is usually rapid.

Children

Signs and symptoms common in children include:

• Ear pain, especially when lying down
• Tugging or pulling at an ear
• Trouble sleeping
• Crying more than usual
• Fussiness
• Trouble hearing or responding to sounds
• Loss of balance
• Fever of 100 F (38 C) or higher
• Drainage of fluid from the ear
• Headache
• Loss of appetite

Adults

Common signs and symptoms in adults include:

• Ear pain
• Drainage of fluid from the ear
• Trouble hearing

When to see a doctor

Signs and symptoms of an ear infection can indicate several conditions. It's important to get an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment. Call your child's doctor if:

• Symptoms last for more than a day
• Symptoms are present in a child less than 6 months of age
• Ear pain is severe
• Your infant or toddler is sleepless or irritable after a cold or other upper respiratory infection
• You observe a discharge of fluid, pus or bloody fluid from the ear