6 tip-offs your child may have an ear infection

Otitis media is a middle ear infection. It is most common in infants and young children, especially those between the ages of 6 months and 3 years. By the age of one year, most children will have had one or more middle ear infections. Although a middle ear infection can occur at any age, it's much less common in older children and adults. Antibiotics are often used to treat ear infections, but in certain circumstances, a doctor may suggest waiting for 2 to 3 days before starting antibiotics.

Not sure if your child has an ear infection? There might be symptoms you're overlooking. Take this quiz to get more information.

Answer yes or no to the following questions:

1. Is your child tugging, pulling or rubbing an ear?

yes no

2. Does your child have a fever?

yes no

3. Is your child irritable?

yes no

4. Does your child seem to have trouble hearing (e.g., not responding to quiet sounds)?

yes no

5. Is your child having trouble sleeping or crying more than usual?

yes no

6. Is there any type of discharge visible from your child's ear (ie. pus, fluid, blood)?

yes no

If you answered "yes" to any or all of the above questions, your child may have an ear infection. Talk to your child's doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.