We all want our children’s ears to be healthy - and most importantly, to protect their hearing - but unfortunately ear infections are very common in children, particularly between the ages of six months and two years. Most infections are caused by viral infections or colds.

Top 10 Tips

1. Ear infections are caused when sticky fluid, a bit like glue, builds up in the middle ear and becomes infected with bacteria.

2. In babies and younger children, sometimes the only sign of an ear infection is a fever.

3. Often children are just irritable, sometimes they can be pulling at their ears, or falling over more often if their balance is affected. Older children will tell you if they have sore ears and if they have a burst eardrum, there will be some discharge.

4. Breastfeeding and keeping your child’s environment smoke-free may help reduce the risk of ear infections.

5. If you suspect an ear infection, don’t delay – see a doctor.

6. Doctors will usually recommend antibiotics for children under two. Often with older children, they will hold off on giving antibiotics unless things don’t settle down quickly.

7. Keep your child home when they are unwell. They will need lots of cuddles and possibly some sort of pain relief, such as Pamol. Follow instructions carefully.

8. Take your child back to the doctor if their ear starts to discharge, or if they continue to be unwell and you’re worried.

9. Four to six weeks after an ear infection, your child will need to have a check-up to make sure all the fluid has gone. If your child gets frequent ear infections as they may need grommets to drain the fluid away from the middle ear.

10. A child’s hearing can be tested at any age, even as a newborn. If you have any concerns, ask for a hearing test.