Pediatrics: Lillian Beard, M.D.

When do babies typically get their first ear infection? What are the signs?

By Lillian Beard, M.D.

The first three years of life may be dotted with many ear infections (some babies average four to six per year), since infants and younger children have shorter ear canals with straighter, less angled eustachian tubes than older children and adults. This makes it very easy for secretions from the mouth, nose, and sinuses to become entrapped in the middle-ear space behind the eardrum. As a result, ear infections (otitis media) often follow colds. These increased secretions cause increased pressure on the inside of the eardrum, resulting in great pain and discomfort. Babies' symptoms may include fever, sustained crying, refusal of feedings, and rubbing or hitting at the offending ear. Because hearing loss can result from multiple episodes of untreated otitis media, if you suspect an ear infection, call your pediatrician, who will need to evaluate your child and may prescribe antibiotics.

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