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Symptom Checker

Earache in Children

An earache is pain felt in or around the ear. The pain may come from the ear itself or from nearby structures.

Middle-ear infections, pressure or fluid behind the eardrum, swimmer’s ear, earwax and irritation in the ear canal can cause ear pain. Tooth, jaw and throat problems can sometimes cause pain that is felt in the ear.

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AAP Guide to Earache in Children

The AAP guide below explains common causes of ear pain, what symptoms to watch for, and when to bring your child in.

AAP Symptom CheckerEarache

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • The ear pain is severe, persistent or getting worse.
  • Fluid, pus or blood is draining from the ear.
  • Your child has hearing changes, fever or seems unusually ill.
  • The skin behind the ear becomes red, swollen or tender.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child is not alert or is very difficult to wake.
  • Swelling behind the ear is severe and your child appears very ill.
  • A serious head injury caused the ear symptoms.
  • You think your child has a life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on ears, nose, mouth and teeth

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms