Signs and symptoms of ear-related conditions in children may differ, depending on the location and cause of the problem. Ear infections are one of the most common childhood illnesses. Although ear infections may occur in the outer, middle or inner ear, most infections that occur during childhood are middle ear infections.  

Often, symptoms of ear infections are preceded by symptoms of a cold or the flu in young children. Parents should be especially alert for signs or symptoms of ear infection after their child has these illnesses.

Common signs and symptoms of ear infections include:

• Ear pain (may be displayed as a tugging at the ear or increased irritability)
  
  
• Discharge from the ear
  
  
• Hearing loss

Signs specific to middle ear (otitis media) infections include:

• Ear pain worsens when sucking, swallowing, chewing, blowing nose or lying down
  
  
• Fever
  
  
• Dizziness
  
  
• Vomiting
  
  
• Decreased appetite (may be displayed as refusal of bottle or breast)
  
  
• Ringing or buzzing in the ears
  
  
• Eardrum is pink or red
  
  
• Eardrum appears as if stretched tightly or bulging

Signs specific to outer ear (swimmer’s ear) infections include:

• Itchiness of the outer ear
  
  
• Pain when the outside of the ear is touched
  
  
• Red, swollen ear canal
  
  
• Red, swollen or flaking skin on the exterior ear (auricle)

Signs specific to inner ear (labyrinthitis) infections include:

• Severe dizziness
  
  
• Spinning sensation
  
  
• Nausea and vomiting

Signs specific to foreign objects lodged in the ear canal include:

• Itchiness around the ear
  
  
• Swelling of the ear
  
  
• Hear buzzing or feel movement inside the ear (if insect in the ear)

Immediate medical attention is required if children develop any of the following:

• Seizures
  
  
• Severe pain that is nonresponsive to pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen)
  
  
• Extreme dizziness
  
  
• Unusual fatigue