Ear Pain in Children – Night-time Ear Pain & Pediatric Ear Clinic
Overview
Get expert pediatric ENT care at Ankura Hospitals.
Ear pain is a frequent complaint in children and often becomes more noticeable at night. While it can be caused by simple issues like wax buildup, it may also indicate ear infections, fluid in the middle ear, or other underlying ENT conditions. Prompt evaluation ensures proper treatment and prevents complications.
Ear pain is a frequent complaint in children and often becomes more noticeable at night. While it can be caused by simple issues like wax buildup, it may also indicate ear infections, fluid in the middle ear, or other underlying ENT conditions. Prompt evaluation ensures proper treatment and prevents complications.
- Causes & Risk Factors
- Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection): Most common cause of nighttime ear pain in young children.
- Otitis Externa (Outer Ear Infection / Swimmer’s Ear): Often associated with swimming or water exposure.
- Earwax Blockage: Accumulation can cause pressure and discomfort.
- Teething: In infants, teething can cause referred pain to the ears.
- Cold or Sinus Infection: Congestion can create pressure in the ears.
Signs & Symptoms
- Tugging or rubbing of the ear
- Complaints of sharp, dull, or throbbing pain, worse at night
- Fever, irritability, or poor sleep
- Fluid drainage from the ear in some cases
- Difficulty hearing or responding to sounds
Diagnosis & Treatment
A pediatric ENT evaluates the ear using an otoscope and may recommend:
- Medications: Antibiotics for bacterial infections, pain relief medications
- Ear drops: For outer ear infections or inflammation
- Ear cleaning: Removal of wax or foreign objects
- Surgery: In recurrent or severe cases, procedures like ear tubes may be needed
Home Care & Prevention
- Keep ears dry and clean; avoid inserting objects
- Use pain relief medications as advised
- Encourage gentle chewing or swallowing to relieve pressure during colds
- Maintain timely immunizations to reduce infection risks
When to See a Doctor
Seek immediate medical attention if your child has:
- High fever or persistent pain
- Swelling, redness, or discharge from the ear
- Hearing loss or balance problems
- Recurrent infections affecting daily life
Frequently Asked Questions
Our healthcare specialists are equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide you with the support you require. From consultation to diagnosis to treatments, our experts are dedicated to helping you.