Know when the symptoms you are experiencing are indicative of an ear infection.

While it should be rather obvious when you develop an ear infection, not all infections will cause symptoms. This is why it can sometimes be difficult to tell whether the changes that you notice could be warning you of an infection or something else. Plus, if your little one develops an ear infection (a common problem in young children) they may not be able to verbalize what’s going on. In this case, it’s up to you to put the puzzle pieces together and take them to one of our Springfield, Northampton and Mary Lane Hospital otolaryngologists.

If you are experiencing symptoms of an ear infection then you may notice:

• Ear pain (this can range from a dull ache to a sharp, constant pain)
• Ear drainage
• Feeling as if there is pressure or fullness in the ears
• Nausea

Of course, if you suspect that your little one has an ear infection then they may not be able to tell you that they have one. This is why it’s a good idea to keep your eyes out for signs of an infection such as pulling or tugging at the ear. They may become fussier than usual or more irritable.

If your child has an ear infection they may also have trouble sleeping through the night. You may notice that they don’t have much of an appetite or that they even have a slight fever. Drainage from the ear may also occur.

When should you seek medical attention?

There comes a time when at-home treatment and care just isn’t going to cut it and you’ll need to visit our Springfield, Northampton and Mary Lane Hospital ENT doctors to get the treatment you need to eliminate the infection. It’s time to give us a call right away if:

• You have a fever over 100.4 degrees F (particularly important if this occurs in children)
• You (or your child) develop ear infections regularly
• You (or your child) notice that you have trouble hearing
• You (or your child) also develop a stiff neck (this is a medical emergency)

Ear Nose & Throat, Surgeons of Western New England offers three convenient locations in Springfield, Northhampton and Ware, MA, to serve you better. If you have symptoms of an ear infection give us a call today.