Middle ear infections (otitis media) are one of the most common problems among infants. In the first year of life, infants are extremely susceptible to infections, including ear infections. Most of these infections occur after a baby has caught a cold or the flu. Parents should keep a close eye on their child after a cold or the flu for signs of a possible ear infection.

Infants will most likely indicate the presence of earache or pain by crying and sometimes by tugging or swatting at their ears or head. The cries associated with ear infections may sound different than the cries used when a baby is hungry or tired. Infants with an ear infection may also refuse feedings. Sucking motions and swallowing can worsen the pain associated with middle ear infections. In cases where hearing loss may have occurred as a result of an ear infection, an infant may be unresponsive to sounds.

Parents who notice any indication of a possible ear infection in their infant should contact their child’s pediatrician. Physicians may sometimes recommend prescription or over-the-counter ear drops for an infant with an ear infection.