What to Know About Ear Infections in Children
Learn about child ear infections, how to treat and prevent ear infections at home, when to see a pediatrician and when to see an ENT for ear tubes.
June 26, 2026
Ear Infections in Children
Ear infections are one of the most common childhood illnesses. So common the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders estimates five out of every six children will have at least one ear infection before their third birthday.
An ear infection (also called acute otitis media) happens when the middle ear (which isn't visible from the outside) becomes infected and swollen. As a result, fluid builds up, often causing pain.
Common Signs of Ear Infections
Signs your child may have an ear infection include:
Difficulty hearing
Ear pain or tugging on the ears
Fever
Fluid draining from the ear
Reduced appetite
Trouble sleeping
Recognizing these signs early can guide you in taking the right steps.
You can help prevent your child’s ear infections by:
Avoiding secondhand smoke
Ensuring your child receives recommended vaccinations
Sitting your child up when feeding
Washing your hands frequently
What Should I Do if I Think My Child Has an Ear Infection?
If you think your child has an ear infection, focus on managing any pain and discomfort. The American Academy of Pediatrics estimates that 80% of child ear infections improve on their own. In some cases, ear infections can lead to complications, including temporary hearing issues. If your child’s symptoms last more than 48 hours, or you have concerns, contact your pediatrician.
Home Care and Watchful Waiting
For children 6 months and older with mild symptoms, you may be able to treat their ear infection at home. Make sure your child gets fluids and rest. An over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help with pain and fever. In many cases, providers recommend “watchful waiting” to see if symptoms improve within a few days.
When to See Your Pediatrician for an Ear Infection
Ear infections are the number one reason parents schedule appointments[OK10] with their child’s provider. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), your child should see a pediatrician right away if they have:
A fever of 102.2°F or higher (100.4°F or higher if they’re under 3 months old)
Pus, discharge or fluid in the ear
Symptoms that worsen or last more than two or three days
Hearing loss
Your pediatrician will ask about your child’s health and symptoms. Then, they’ll use an instrument called an otoscope to look inside the ear. Most of the time, they can see inflammation and middle ear fluid or pus to confirm if your child has an ear infection.
Some providers may prescribe antibiotics to treat a child’s ear infection. Others might recommend some at-home ear infection treatments. A follow-up appointment is often scheduled to ensure the infection has resolved.
What Happens if My Child is Referred to an ENT?
Your pediatrician may refer your child to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor if your child:
Has recurring ear infections, colds or sinus infections
Has ear infection symptoms last more than a few days
Complains of severe ear, nose or throat pain
Has difficulty hearing, speaking or swallowing
Snores or has noisy breathing
Children with frequent ear infections may benefit from ear tubes (also called tympanostomy tubes). The Ear Tube Clinic at Children’s Nebraska offers evaluations to determine the best treatment option for each child.
What is the Children’s Nebraska Ear Tube Clinic?
At Children’s Nebraska, our Ear Tube Clinic gives you direct access to ENT experts. Here’s what you can expect at your first appointment:
Your child will see an audiologist for a hearing test.
An ENT provider will perform a physical exam and look inside the ear.
If your child needs an ear tube procedure, your team will help you schedule it.
A pediatric otolaryngology (ENT) surgeon performs the procedure, with support from a pediatric anesthesiologist.
Providers at Children’s perform ear tube procedures every week. Children’s pediatric ENTs have specialized training and equipment needed to treat kids. Additionally, you’ll have access to providers across 50+ specialties to ensure collaborative and complete care.
