Ear Infection Symptoms: Signs to Watch for in Children and Adults

Originally written December 18, 2018

Ear infections are one of the most common childhood illnesses, but adults can develop them, too. Knowing the signs of an ear infection can help you seek treatment sooner and avoid complications.

In This Article...

1. What is an ear infection?
2. What are the signs of an ear infection in children?
3. What are the signs of an ear infection in adults?
4. What does an ear infection feel like?
5. When should you see a doctor for an ear infection?

What is an ear infection?

The most common type of ear infection is a middle ear infection, also known as otitis media. It occurs when bacteria move through the Eustachian tube and into the middle ear, causing inflammation and a buildup of fluid. As pressure increases behind the eardrum, symptoms such as pain, hearing difficulties, and irritability can develop.

Because children's Eustachian tubes are smaller and more easily blocked, ear infections occur more frequently in infants and young children than in adults.

What are the signs of an ear infection in children?

Young children may not always be able to explain what they're feeling, but they often show signs that something is wrong.

Ear pain

Ear pain is one of the most common symptoms of an ear infection. Children may complain that their ear hurts or become especially uncomfortable when lying down.

Pulling or tugging at the ear

Infants and toddlers often pull at their ears when they're experiencing discomfort or pressure.

Increased crying or irritability

Ear infections can be painful, causing young children to become fussier than usual or difficult to console.

Fever

Many children develop a fever as their body fights the infection. 

Difficulty hearing

Fluid trapped behind the eardrum can temporarily affect hearing and make sounds seem muffled.

Loss of appetite

Pain while swallowing can increase pressure in the middle ear, causing some children to eat less than usual.

Trouble sleeping

Ear pain often becomes more noticeable at night when a child is lying flat.

Headaches or balance problems

Because the ears play an important role in balance, some children may experience dizziness, headaches, or coordination issues during an infection.

Ear drainage

Fluid draining from the ear can be a sign of infection and should be evaluated by a medical professional.

What Are the Signs of an Ear Infection in Adults?

Although ear infections are less common in adults, they can still occur and may cause symptoms such as:

• Ear pain or an earache
• A sharp or stabbing pain in the ear
• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
• Difficulty hearing or muffled hearing
• Ear drainage
• Dizziness or balance issues
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

Adults who experience persistent ear fullness accompanied by hearing loss should consider an evaluation by an ENT specialist and audiologist to rule out other potential causes.

What Does an Ear Infection Feel Like?

People often describe an ear infection as pressure, fullness, throbbing pain, or a sharp stabbing sensation inside the ear. Some experience muffled hearing, popping sensations, or discomfort that worsens when lying down. Young children may not be able to describe these feelings and instead become irritable, clingy, or have difficulty sleeping.

When Should You See a Doctor for an Ear Infection?

Many ear infections respond well to treatment, but it's important to seek medical attention if symptoms:

• Last longer than a few days
• Cause significant pain
• Include hearing loss
• Result in ear drainage
• Occur repeatedly
• Are accompanied by a high fever

Children who experience six or more ear infections within a 12-month period or have persistent fluid in their ears for three months or longer should be evaluated by an ENT physician. In some cases, ear tubes may be recommended.

Don't Ignore Ear Infection Symptoms

Whether you're concerned about your child tugging at their ear or you're experiencing ear pain and hearing changes yourself, recognizing the signs of an ear infection is the first step toward getting relief. If you or your child are experiencing symptoms, CEENTA is available with same-day appointments across over twenty locations in the Carolinas.

Schedule you or your child's appointment online or through myCEENTAchart to get started.

This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your physician.