Here are nine symptoms that you should look out for:
They have a cold
If your little one has a cold, including a runny nose, they may also have an infection in their ear as the two commonly come together.
Feeling irritable
Irritability is another sign that your baby has a sore ear. This can include anything from not wanting to be held, getting annoyed at you easily, being generally fussy or pushing you or others away if you go near their head.
High pitched cry
As they can’t talk, babies have various cries to let them know that they want something. If they are sick, their cry can appear high pitched, like they are in pain. However, a cry alone is not a big enough indicator so look out for any other signs.
Inability to sleep
If your little one is normally a good sleeper, not being able to settle is another sign that something is wrong. When your baby has an ear infection, lying down can be uncomfortable which will obviously impact on their sleep.
High fever
A high fever can be associated with a number of other illnesses, but it could also be a sign that they have an infection in their ear.
Pulling at ear
If your little one is pulling or messing with their ear a lot it may be troubling them – an indicator that they have an infection.
Mucus from ear
Look for anything coming out of the ear including a yellow or white discharge, which is a sign of an infection.
Poor appetite
Again, while this is not solely associated with a painful ear if it is also accompanied by other symptoms it could be a sign that your infant is suffering from one.
Being clingy
When they are sick all a baby really wants is to be hugged and cuddled. If you find they are being extra clingy and unwilling to go to others they may be under the weather.
