Middle Ear Infection Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Symptoms include:

• Ear pain (babies may tug or rub at the ear or face)
• Fever
• Irritability
• Hearing loss (may be only temporary, due to fluid accumulation)
• Decreased appetite, difficulty feeding
• Disturbed sleep
• Drainage from ear
• Difficulty with balance

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Most middle ear infections can be diagnosed by looking into the ear with a lighted instrument, called an otoscope.

The doctor will see if there is fluid or pus behind the eardrum. A small tube and bulb may be attached to the otoscope. This is to blow a light puff of air into the ear. The puff helps the doctor see if the eardrum is moving normally.

Other tests may include:

• Tympanocentesis—used to drain fluid or pus from the middle ear using a needle, also used to check for bacteria
• Tympanometry—measures pressure in the middle ear and responsiveness of the eardrum, also used to check for fluid or pus
• Hearing test —may be done if you have had many ear infections