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Young children often tug or pull at the affected ear, become fussy or unusually irritable, and may have trouble sleeping or feeding. Fever, fluid draining from the ear, or reduced response to sounds can also occur, and ear infections frequently follow a cold. Because little ones can't always describe the pain, it's best to have an ENT specialist or pediatrician examine the ear if you suspect an infection.

It's generally not recommended to put cotton swabs or any small objects inside your child's ear canal, as this can push wax deeper, cause injury, or damage the eardrum. Earwax is normal and usually clears on its own, so gently cleaning the outer ear with a soft, damp cloth is often enough. If wax seems to be building up or affecting hearing, ask your ENT specialist about safe removal options rather than trying to dig it out at home.

Consider seeing a doctor if your child has ear pain that doesn't ease, fluid or blood draining from the ear, a high fever, or signs they aren't hearing well. Repeated ear infections, ongoing tugging at the ear, or balance problems are also worth having checked. Seek prompt, same-day care if the pain is severe, if there is drainage or bleeding after an ear injury, or if your child seems very unwell, and see your ENT specialist for anything persistent or recurring.

Keeping up with routine childhood vaccinations, avoiding exposure to tobacco smoke, and practicing good hand hygiene can help lower the chances of the colds that often lead to ear infections. Where possible, avoiding bottle-feeding while your baby is lying flat on their back, and breastfeeding when you can, may also be supportive. No approach prevents every infection, so talk with your ENT specialist or pediatrician about what's right for your child, especially if infections keep coming back.