Ear Infections

An ear infection happens when bacteria or viruses get into the middle part of your ear. It can cause pain, trouble hearing, and sometimes a fever. Ear infections are one of the most common reasons kids visit the doctor.

Why Kids Get Ear Infections

Kids get ear infections more often than adults. That is because the tubes that drain fluid from the ears are smaller and more level in children. This makes it easier for fluid to get trapped.

Ear infections often happen after a cold or sore throat. The germs travel from the nose and throat to the ear.

Treatment

If your ear hurts, tell an adult. A doctor can look inside your ear with a special tool. Some ear infections get better on their own. Others may need medicine called antibiotics.

A warm cloth held against the ear can help ease the pain. If you keep getting ear infections, a doctor may suggest other treatments to help.

Fun Facts

• About 75 percent of kids will have at least one ear infection by age three.
• Ear infections are more common in winter and spring.
• Breastfeeding as a baby can help lower the risk of ear infections later.

Did You Know?

The tiny tube that connects your ear to your throat is called the Eustachian tube, and it is named after an Italian scientist who discovered it in the 1500s!