The symptoms of an ear infection can vary depending on the type of infection and the age of the person affected. The following are some common symptoms of ear infections:

Symptoms in Children:

• Ear pain, especially when lying down
• Tugging or pulling at an ear
• Trouble sleeping
• Crying more than usual
• Fussiness
• Trouble hearing or responding to sounds
• Loss of balance
• Fever of 100 F (38 C) or higher
• Drainage of fluid from the ear
• Headache
• Loss of appetite

Symptoms in Adults:

• Ear pain
• Drainage of fluid from the ear
• Trouble hearing
• Sore throat
• Muffled hearing

In addition to the above symptoms, young children and babies with an ear infection may also rub or pull their ear, not react to some sounds, be irritable or restless, be off their food, and keep losing their balance.

Its important to see a doctor if symptoms last for more than a day, if ear pain is severe, or if there is drainage of fluid from the ear. If a child less than 6 months of age has symptoms, its important to seek medical attention. If there is a high fever, severe pain behind the ear, or paralysis in the face, its important to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible.