My Child Has an Ear Infection — What Should I Do?
It's 9 p.m. Your child is crying, tugging at their ear, and running a fever. Sound familiar? Ear infections are one of the most common reasons parents in the Peosta and Dubuque area bring their kids in to see us — and for good reason. They're painful, they come on fast, and it can be hard to know what to do.
Here's what you need to know.
Signs Your Child Has an Ear Infection
Ear infections don't always announce themselves clearly, especially in babies and toddlers who can't tell you what hurts. Watch for:
Tugging or pulling at one or both ears
Fussiness or crying more than usual
Trouble sleeping
Fever (often above 100°F)
Fluid draining from the ear
Trouble hearing or responding to sounds
Balance problems or seeming clumsier than normal
Can an Ear Infection Go Away on Its Own?
Sometimes, yes. Mild ear infections in older children (ages 2 and up) can resolve without antibiotics within a few days. However, in infants under 6 months or any child with severe symptoms, antibiotics are usually needed.
The safest approach? Call your child's provider and let them make the call. Waiting too long to seek treatment for a true bacterial infection can lead to complications.
When to Call the Doctor Right Away
Your child is under 6 months old
Fever is 102°F or higher
Symptoms are getting worse after 2–3 days
There is fluid or pus draining from the ear
Your child seems in significant pain
What to Do While You Wait for the Appointment
A warm (not hot) compress held gently against the ear can ease pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers like children's acetaminophen or ibuprofen (for children over 6 months) can also help with discomfort and fever. Always follow dosing instructions for your child's weight and age.
Can Ear Infections Be Prevented?
Not entirely, but a few things help: keeping your child's vaccinations up to date (including the flu vaccine), avoiding secondhand smoke, and breastfeeding if possible. If your child gets ear infections frequently, we can talk through longer-term options, including whether a referral to an ENT is right for them.
Questions about your child's health? Call Burds Family Practice in Peosta at (563) 588-6659 or visit burdsfamilypractice.com to request an appointment. We're here for your family.