Ear aches in young children

Ear infections usually start with a cold. Fluid builds up in the inner ear and the Eustachian tubes, because they are narrow, keep the fluid from draining, thus causing pressure and pain. The adenoid glands help to fight infection but they may become infected and enlarged and even block the Eustachian tubes, preventing fluid drainage.

Young children ages 18 months to 6 years are most at risk for ear infections. A cold or fever usually accompanies ear infections. Babies who are fed a bottle lying down seem to have a higher incidence of ear infections. Poor air quality also affects ear health.

It may be hard to tell when a very young child has an ear infection. If a child doesn’t sleep, is irritable, rubs of pulls one or both ears, he or she may have an ear infection. Call your doctor if you suspect one.

If the ear discomfort is caused by a virus then antibiotics will not help. Usually an over the counter non-aspirin pain reliever will. Sometimes eardrops are prescribed. Some doctors recommend placing a warm wash cloth on the child’s ear to help bring comfort. A gently warmed (not hot) heat pack may help.

Watching for signs of infection is important and following up with a 2nd examination after the child has recovered is important. Sometimes fluid can remain trapped in the ear even after an infection is gone.

Ear infections are diagnosed by a doctor’s examination and by a family history.
For more information about ear infections please read the article at the Mayo Clinic Web site.


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Maine Warmers makes heat packs that are soft and easy on the skin. A perfect size heat pack for a child is their “Benny Bumpeezer – the soothing mouse.” It can be used as an ice pack when frozen, and used to reduce swelling and pain.