Ear infections occur most commonly in the inner ear. Also referred to as otitis media, these infections affect infants and children more often than adults because of the shape of their growing bodies. The eustachian tubes, which connect the ear to the sinuses, drain easier as a child grows. The positioning of the tube in early years is shorter, horizontal and flexible, according to the Merck Manual of Health Information. This shape and positioning allows fluid to pool in the inner ear and increases the chance of infections. Recognizing the symptoms of an ear infection is important for proper treatment to help prevent permanent damage or hearing loss.
Pain
Ear infections in the middle ear cause extreme pain in the affected ear. A child who cannot communicate easily may exhibit other signs of pain. Pulling at the ears may be a signal to parents that the ears are causing discomfort. The child may also cry inconsolably. Difficulty sleeping due to the pain may also occur.
Fever
A fever may accompany an ear infection. A fever is a natural process in the body to help defend against foreign invaders. A fever during an ear infection may reach more than 100 degrees, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Hearing Loss
The fluid and pus collected in the inner ear during an ear infection may cause a decrease in hearing. This hearing loss occurs because the sound normally magnifies and travels through air filled spaces in the inner ear. After filling the space with fluid, the eardrum does not vibrate as normal and the sound does not travel through the bones in the inner ear correctly. In addition to a decrease in hearing, individuals suffering from an ear infection may have a ringing in the ear. Children who have hearing loss associated with an acute ear infection may not respond when called due to this increased fluid. This hearing loss is temporary and hearing returns to normal once the infection clears.
Cold Symptoms
Most often, ear infections occur in addition to symptoms of a common cold. These symptoms include a runny nose, a stuffy nose and coughing. Some children may also experience nausea, vomiting and diarrhea with the ear infection. Individuals with ear infections may feel generally unwell, according to Medline Plus.
Fluid from Ear
If the eardrum ruptures from the increased pressure in the middle ear, fluid may appear in the ear canal. This fluid may appear clear, yellow, green or bloody. The color and thickness of the fluid depends on the severity of infection.
