Ear Infections

 

Ear Infections: An ear infection (acute otitis media) is most often a bacterial or viral infection that affects the middle ear, the air-filled space behind the eardrum that contains the tiny vibrating bones of the ear. Ear infections frequently are painful because of inflammation and buildup of fluids in the middle ear.

Symptoms In Children:

– Ear pain, especially when lying down
– Tugging or pulling at an ear
– Difficulty sleeping
– Crying more than usual
– Acting more irritable than usual
– Difficulty hearing or responding to sounds
– Loss of balance
– Fever of 100 F (38 C) or higher
– Drainage of fluid from the ear
– Headache
– Loss of appetite

Symptoms In Adults:

– Ear pain
– Drainage of fluid from the ear
– Diminished hearing