Earache in Babies & Children

This article has been written and medically approved by Pharmacist Conor McSorley GPhC Reg No. 2223070

Earache is frustrating for most adults but in children it can often be very painful. Pain in the ear can stem from many different causes with a few listed below. Children under the age of 5 should have their earache diagnosed by a doctor.

• Ear wax build-up

If your child is complaining of earache but is otherwise well in themselves and has had no recent cold or flu, then it is likely a build-up of ear wax. Olive oil ear drops can be used in children over the age of 6 to help remove ear wax. You should not use cotton buds inside an ear as this can lodge wax.

• Ear infection

If your child is complaining of earache accompanied by a high fever or sickness, then they are most likely suffering from an infection and may need antibiotics from a GP. Ear infections are common in babies and toddlers particularly after a cold.

• Pressure build up following a cold or sinus infection

If your child had a cold or flu a few days prior to the earache starting, then it may have been caused by a build-up of pressure in the inner ear. This may also lead to short-term issues with hearing and a GP should be seen.

• Oral pain

Tooth ache can cause pains in the upper jaw, which to a child, may feel like the pain is coming from the ear.