Learning to identify when your child’s ear pain is a symptom of something to worry about, can help you prevent restless nights and possible complications. Generally, this symptom is not indicative of something dangerous, but in some cases it can be a hint of a serious problem, like an ear infection or an underlying health issue. In cases such as these, immediate medical attention is vital.
As a parent, you know your child’s care and protection depends on you most of the time, that’s why it is crucial to know which signs denote that something is not right. At South Plains Rural Health we provide you detailed information about it, for you be able to identify if your child’s ear pain requires an immediate visit to our practice
When to See a Pediatrician for Child’s Ear Pain?
Let’s go over some symptoms that can accompany your child’s ear pain that can be an indication that a visit to the pediatrician is required as soon as possible.
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Babies and Infants
When your child is old enough, they are able to tell you—with more or less words—that something is causing them discomfort. Instead, with the little ones, knowing which signs to look for is key to identifying when the situation is serious, and thus taking immediate action.
Some of these signs are:
- Irritated crying or fussiness
- Pulling or tugging at the ear
- Fluids draining from the ear
- No reacting to familiar sounds
- Problems to feed or take liquids
- Trouble sleeping or waking up often
- High fever (temperatures above 100.4°F or 38°C)
Children
See if you notice any of the previous symptoms accompanying your child’s ear pain. Also, pay attention if you observe, or they inform you, about feeling some of the following:
- If lying down causes them pain
- Loss of hearing or muffled hearing
- If chewing or swallowing causes pain
- Dizziness, clumsiness or balance problems
- Ear pain that lasts for more than a couple of days
- Ear pain that can’t be relieved with children medication
- If they just recovered from a cold or upper respiratory infection
About Ear Pain in Children
Common Causes
Your child’s ear pain can have several causes, including ear infections, children teething, swimmer’s ear, pressure changes, sinus congestion, among others. Although most cases are solved by themselves after a couple of days, more serious problems will require medical intervention, antibiotics or other treatments, like ear tubes.
If this is a recurring situation, it’s possible that the cause may be related to allergies, sinusitis, secondhand smoke, going to bed with a bottle, among other factors or health problems. Inform your pediatrician about this if it’s a frequent situation, since issues like repeated infections can lead to severe or long-term complications.
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Possible Complications
When your child’s ear pain is accompanied by other symptoms that are signs of an ear infection, it’s critical to consult a pediatrician as soon as possible. A medical specialist such as this, not only provides care and treatment, but also helps to prevent other possible issues. If an ear pain caused by a serious problem like an infection is left untreated, it could lead to more severe matters or long-term complications. Including hearing loss, spread of the infection, developmental challenges, among others.
Find Treatment for Your Child’s Ear Pain in Texas
At South Plains Rural Health in Lamesa, Texas, our pediatric specialists provide you and your children with comprehensive healthcare services. Including cases of ear pain accompanied by other symptoms that require quick action and treatment. Our physicians can assist in your child’s recovery, from prescribed antibiotics that cure simple conditions, to placement of ear tubes that help drain fluids—in cases of repeated infections.
Contact us to schedule an appointment or come to our practice in Levelland or Lamesa, Texas. Where our medical practitioners are ready to attend your child’s ear pain and find the right treatment for them.