Earache

Earache is a very common complaint in childhood.

Earache usually comes from one of the following:

• Infection of the outer ear, usually associated with swimming and otherwise known as swimmer’s ear. It causes pain (especially when the ear is tugged) and sometimes a thick, white discharge.
• Infection of the middle ear (otitis media), often accompanied by a fever, moderate to severe pain, and recent cold symptoms. There may be a discharge from the ear if the eardrum ruptures.
• Foreign object in the ear. The child usually has sudden pain, no fever, and may develop an infection of the outer ear.
• Pressure behind the eardrum, usually associated with allergy or cold symptoms. The pain frequently comes and goes.

Call the doctor’s office immediately when your child has any of the following symptoms:

• discharge from the ear.
• severe pain that cannot be controlled with children’s acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
• headache or dizziness.
• a stiff (rigid) neck.
• fever over 102 degrees despite medication or fever that lasts longer than 72 hours.
• signs that an object may have penetrated the ear.
• tender, swollen, or painful area behind the ear.

Each of the above symptoms usually requires an appointment with the pediatrician, so be sure to call as soon as the office opens in the morning.