Ailments and Situations - Ear Infection - Symptoms and Signs:

Otitis Media

Symptoms of acute otitis media include earache, irritability, fever, and chills. Upon inspection with an otoscope (standard ear viewing instrument), the ear drum will appear red and bulging. There is usually a history of recent upper respiratory tract infection or allergy. Occasionally, there may be vomiting, nausea, and loss of appetite.

For chronic otitis media there is temporary, painless, hearing loss with constant swelling of the tympanic membrane (ear drum). This hearing loss can become permanent if the condition persists untreated for several months. Occasionally, a clicking or popping sound can be heard while the child is swallowing or sucking.

Otitis Externa

Generally, symptoms include itching and mild to severe pain. Occasionally, the skin of the canal is swollen and red. There may be a foul odour discharge from the ear.