What does a baby ear infection look like?

What does a baby ear infection look like?

Here are some things to look for: A red, bulging eardrum. Clear, yellow, or greenish fluid behind the eardrum. There may also be some blood.

How long do ear infections last in babies?

If it's been several days and your child still seems sick, call your doctor. Your child might need a different antibiotic. Once the infection clears, fluid may still remain in the middle ear but usually disappears within three to six weeks.

When should I take my baby to the doctor for an ear infection?

When your toddler starts tugging on his ear, you may assume that's a telltale sign of an ear infection. He might do the same thing, though, if he's cutting teeth; nerves in the back teeth branch out to the middle ear, so it can feel like his pain is coming from his ear.

How do you check for an ear infection?

A doctor will generally be able to diagnose an ear infection based on the symptoms and a physical examination. This will usually involve the use of an otoscope – a lighted, wand-like instrument – which can be used to check the ears, throat and nose for signs of infection.

How do you clean an infant’s ears?

Many children get ear infections. The infections are usually in the middle ear behind the eardrum. … Infants and some babies and children do need antibiotics. But using antibiotics too often can be harmful.