Ear pain: does my child need a doctor?
Ear pain in kids is often from an ear infection after a cold. Many get better on their own in 2–3 days.
🔴 Go to the ER or call 911 if there is
- Swelling or redness behind the ear that pushes it forward
- Stiff neck with fever
- Very sleepy or hard to wake
🟠 Get care today if there is
- Fever over 102°F (38.9°C)
- Fluid or pus draining from the ear
- Pain lasting more than 2 days
- Any ear pain in a baby under 6 months
🟢 What helps at home
- A warm cloth on the ear
- A fever and pain reliever as the label directs for their weight
Learn more from MedlinePlus, the U.S. National Library of Medicine: Ear pain →. This guide is general information for adults and caregivers. It is not medical advice, it cannot cover every case, and it is not a substitute for a clinician who can examine the person. When in doubt, seek care. FreeDoc is not affiliated with or endorsed by the National Library of Medicine.