If you have kids in your house, you probably have dealt with an ear infection or two. They are incredibly common in children as well as adults.

In fact, the vast majority of children have at least one ear infection before their third birthday! Since they are so common, it is important to understand the signs and symptoms so you can care for your child best.

Our AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail team explains more below, so check it out.

Why Do Infections Occur in Ears?

When you get sick with a viral or bacterial infection, the pathogen you were exposed to settled in your body and started to replicate. The same thing happens if an infection makes its way into your inner ear! Anyone can get an ear infection, but they are more common in children because of their small ear tubes. The smaller the space, the easier it is to disrupt the fluid draining process.

If your child starts to complain of ear pain, keep an eye on the emergence of other symptoms. The pain can occur in one or both ears and can range from mild discomfort to sharp and stabbing. As the infection grows, it can start to put pressure on the eardrum as well.

Symptoms Your Child Might Experience

• Pain inside ear
• Fever
• Discharge coming from ear
• Feeling pressure in ear
• Difficulty hearing

What Are Some Good Treatments for Ear Infections?

Did you know that our immune systems are well-equipped to handle most ear infections? Even small children have a good immune response to them and can usually overcome them in about three days. Continue to offer water, prioritize getting good rest and give him or her OTC pain medication to help with symptom relief.

However, there is always the chance that your child’s infection won’t go away on its own! If your kiddo is still complaining of pain or other symptoms after three days, come see us. We can help determine if a round of antibiotics will help clear it right up.

More Risk Factors for Ear Infections

• Individuals who smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke
• People with allergies
• Children age 3 or younger
• Families with a history of chronic ear infections

Is ear pain affecting your day? Drop by AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail to visit with our care team.