By observing the appearance and movement of the eardrum through an otoscope your doctor is able to diagnose the presence of infection. Almost half of all children will have an ear infection during the first year of life. Many will be prone to recurrences, particularly those with a parent or sibling who had the same problem during childhood. Because ear infections often accompany a cold, they are especially frequent during the fall and winter months. The illness Pain is the most common symptom of middle ear infections.
Elevated temperature is more common in infants and toddlers than in older children.
Sometimes the eardrum bursts when pressure from the infection stretches it to its maximum state. Should this occur we would like to examine the eardrum when you've finished the antibiotic treatment. It is uncommon to have a lasting hole in the eardrum or prolonged hearing loss as a result of ear infection. When to call your doctor You should call our office if you feel frightened or very worried about your child's illness. There are several antibiotics which can be used for treating middle ear infections.