It can be difficult and frustrating to see your child in pain.

This is true even in the majority of extreme cases that require the surgical placement ofventilation tubes.

Take a Break

Consider allowing a trusted adult to watch your child on occasion.

Child with ear infection receiving ear drops

Jelena Stanojkovic / Getty Images

Despite your best efforts, experiencing these symptoms will have a negative effect on your sick child.

You may feel frustrated as a parent that you did not know that they were having ear pain.

This is completely normal to feel frustrated with yourself, but know that you are not alone.

Doctor Discussion Guide Child

Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.

If needed, there are over the counter medications available to help treat the pain.

Caregiving Tips

Ear pain can occur for a number of reasons.

Fortunately, you could take steps to make your child as comfortable as possible.

Administer Medications Appropriately

In many cases, ear infections require the administration of antibiotics.

It may also require some skill/instruction togive ear drops appropriately.

Keep your child in this position for several minutes to allow the ear drops to work.

Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

It depends on your symptoms and the activity.

An ear infection can affect your sense of balance, and having uneven balance makes many exercises dangerous.

You also should avoid getting anything in your ear, such as waterwhich means swimming should be avoided.

Caring for an ear infection involves avoidance.

Contact a healthcare provider if you have concerns about an ear infection.

An ear infection itself is not contagious.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Ear infection.