Ear Infection: What It Is, How to Spot It, and How to Treat It

Got a throbbing ache in your ear or your child keeps tugging at theirs? Chances are you’re dealing with an ear infection. It’s one of the most common reasons people visit the doctor, especially kids. The good news? Most infections are easy to recognize and can be managed at home unless they get serious.

Common signs and symptoms

Ear infections usually show up with a mix of these clues:

• Sharp or dull pain that gets worse when you swallow or yawn.
• Feeling of fullness or pressure inside the ear.
• Fluid leaking from the ear – it can be clear, yellow, or a little bloody.
• Fever, especially in younger kids.
• Difficulty hearing or a muffled sound.
• Ear‑drum redness or bulging if a doctor looks inside.

If you notice any of these, start paying attention. In many cases the pain eases after a day or two, but if it keeps getting worse, you’ll want professional help.

When to treat at home and when to call a doctor

For mild symptoms, over‑the‑counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can bring relief. A warm compress on the affected ear for 10‑15 minutes a few times a day also helps. Keep the ear dry – use a shower cap or a cotton ball coated with petroleum jelly while bathing.

Home care works best when:

• The pain is moderate and not getting stronger.
• There’s no high fever (above 101.5°F or 38.6°C).
• The child can eat, drink, and sleep relatively okay.

Schedule a doctor’s visit if you see any of these red flags:

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve after 48 hours.
• Fever lasting more than two days.
• Fluid that’s thick, green, or blood‑filled.
• Sudden hearing loss or dizziness.
• Repeated infections in the same ear.

Doctors may prescribe antibiotics if bacteria are behind the infection, but most viral ear infections clear up on their own. They’ll also check the ear‑drum for any damage that needs special care.

Quick prevention tips: Keep upper‑respiratory infections in check, practice good hand‑washing, avoid smoking around kids, and make sure babies stay upright during feeds to reduce ear‑canal pressure.

Bottom line: ear infections are usually straightforward, but keeping an eye on symptoms and acting fast when they worsen keeps you or your child from staying sick longer than needed.