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Otitis (Ear Infection) in Children

Middle ear infection is a common illness presenting with fever and earache, especially in infants 6 months to 2 years old.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Otitis (Ear Infection) in Children?

Acute otitis media is an infectious inflammation of the middle ear cavity and the most common reason for antibiotic prescription in children. Most cases follow a viral upper respiratory infection, after which Eustachian tube dysfunction allows bacterial overgrowth in the middle ear.

The most common pathogens are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis. The pneumococcal vaccine has significantly reduced the incidence of otitis caused by these organisms.

Many AOM cases resolve spontaneously within 2-3 days without antibiotics; in mild cases in children older than 2 years, a 48-72 hour wait-and-see approach can be used.

Symptoms

Earache (in young infants, ear tugging or head shaking)
Fever
Decreased hearing
Ear discharge (if the eardrum perforates, pain decreases)
Irritability, sleep disturbance, and feeding difficulty
Nausea and balance problems

Risk Factors

Age 6 months to 2 years
Daycare attendance
Pacifier use (affects Eustachian tube pressure)
Exposure to tobacco smoke
Lack of vaccination (pneumococcus, influenza)
Family history of recurrent otitis

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When earache or fever begins in a baby younger than 6 months
  • If pain does not resolve within 48 hours
  • If there is discharge or blood from the ear
  • If swelling or redness appears behind the ear (suspected mastoiditis)
  • If there is no response to treatment within 72 hours

Treatment Methods

01
Pain control: paracetamol or ibuprofen
02
Antibiotics: amoxicillin first-line; amoxicillin-clavulanate in case of resistance
03
Watch-and-wait: 48-72 hour approach in mild cases over age 2
04
Tympanostomy tube (ventilation tube) surgery for recurrent otitis
05
Prevention with pneumococcal and influenza vaccinations
06
Breastfeeding: reduces the risk of ear infection

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.