“My ear hurts.”
Three of the most dreaded words heard by caregivers around the world and one of the most common reasons children go to the doctor!
Ear infections can cause pain, fever, and sleepless nights for children (and parents). One of the most common questions doctors hear is “are ear infections contagious?”
Unfortunately, the answer is not as black and white as you might think.
The short answer is no, ear infections are not contagious. Much like sinus infections are not contagious.
However, the illnesses and conditions that often lead to middle ear infections are usually contagious, which means understanding the full picture is important, especially during cold and flu season.
What Is an Ear Infection?
An ear infection (or otitis media) is the inflammation and infection of the middle ear which is the space behind the eardrum that contains tiny bones that help with hearing. These types of infections are most common in children because of their developing immune system, but can affect people of all ages.
There are a few different types of ear infections:
- Acute otitis media: The most common type, usually caused by bacteria or viruses that travel from the nose or throat to the middle ear.
- Otitis media with effusion: This occurs when fluid builds up behind the eardrum without signs of active infection.
- Chronic otitis media: A longer-term infection that may be less painful but can cause persistent fluid buildup or hearing problems.
Symptoms of an Ear Infection
The symptoms of an ear infection can vary, especially between children and adults. In babies and young children who are unable to communicate what they’re feeling, you may notice:
- Tugging or pulling at the ears
- Increased fussiness or irritability
- Trouble sleeping
- Fever
- Fluid draining from the ear
- Trouble hearing or responding to sounds
- Loss of balance
Older children and adults may describe:
- Ear pain or pressure in the ear canal
- A feeling of fullness in the ear
- Muffled hearing
- Sharp or dull aching pain
- Sometimes, a temporary loss of hearing
These symptoms are not always an ear infection but it’s a good idea to check in with your child’s pediatrician or healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen.
What Causes an Ear Infection?
Most ear infections develop after a viral upper respiratory infection, in other words, a cold or flu.
When someone has a cold, the infection causes inflammation and mucus buildup in the nasal passages and throat. That swelling can block the Eustatchian tubes (the small passages that connect the middle ear to the back of the throat). These tubes help to drain fluid from the ear and regulate pressure. When they become blocked, fluid can build up in the middle ear and create the perfect environment for bacteria or viruses to thrive.
So… Are Ear Infections Contagious?
The answer is no. The ear infection itself is not contagious. You cannot ‘catch’ an ear infection simply by being near someone who has one.
The viruses that cause the ear infections are very contagious. If your child has an ear infection that came on after a cold, they can spread that to siblings, classmates, and you. If those children also develop fluid buildup in their ears, they may develop their own ear infections.
This is why people tend to say ear infections ‘go around’ during the fall and winter but it’s actually colds and flus that go around.
How to Reduce the Risk of Ear Infections
Unfortunately, there are no full-proof ways to prevent colds or respiratory illnesses, however, there are some steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of frequent ear infections.
- Practice good hygiene: Encourage frequent handwashing and teach kids to avoid touching their faces or sharing drinks and utensils with others.
- Stay up to date on vaccinations: The flu shot and pneumococcal vaccine can help prevent some of the illnesses that can lead to ear infections.
- Avoid secondhand smoke: Exposure to cigarette smoke can increase the risk of ear infections.
- Breastfeeding if possible: Studies have shown that babies who are breastfed tend to have fewer ear infections than those who are formula-fed.
- Hold babies upright when feeding: Lying flat while bottle-feeding can allow milk to enter the Eustachian tubes, which may increase infection risk.
When to See a Doctor
Some ear infections may resolve on their own, particularly if they’re mild and caused by a virus. However, it’s important to know when to seek medical attention.
You should call your healthcare provider or ear, nose, and throat specialist if:
- Your child is under six months old and shows signs of an ear infection
- Symptoms last more than a day or two without improvement
- Your child has a high fever or significant ear pain
- There is fluid or pus draining from the ear
- You notice hearing loss or balance issues
Sometimes your provider will prescribe antibiotics and other times just pain relievers. For recurring ear infections, a doctor may discuss the placement of ear tubes, especially if you or your child has ongoing risk factors.
Supporting Your Family Through Cold and Ear Infection Season
Ear infections are frustrating, especially during the early years of childhood. While the ear infections themselves are not contagious, they often follow contagious illnesses so it can seem like your child is sick constantly.
If your child is experiencing frequent respiratory illnesses including ear issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to your primary care provider. At Family Tree Primary Care, we are here to help you navigate any illness that you or your child experience.
We look forward to seeing you and will provide the education, clarity, and comfort you need to get back to optimal health!