Distinguishing between an ear infection and a common cold in children can be tricky since the symptoms can overlap. However, there are some signs and symptoms that can help you differentiate between the two:
Common Cold Symptoms
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Mild fever
- General fatigue
- Sore throat
Ear Infection Symptoms
- Ear pain, which can be severe and worsen when lying down
- Trouble sleeping
- Fever, usually higher than in a common cold
- Fluid drainage from the ear
- Loss of balance
- Hearing difficulties
- Increased irritability or fussiness, especially in younger children who can’t communicate their discomfort
Tips to Differentiate
- Duration and Progression of Symptoms: If your child starts with cold symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, and mild fever, and then begins to show signs of ear discomfort (pulling at the ear, increased crying, trouble sleeping), this progression may indicate an ear infection.
- Fever Patterns: While both conditions can cause fever, a higher fever following a few days of cold symptoms may suggest an ear infection.
- Behavior Changes: Increased irritability, difficulty sleeping, and crying more than usual, especially when lying down, can be stronger indicators of an ear infection.
- Ear Discharge: The presence of fluid draining from the ear is a clear sign of an ear infection.
- Response to Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers might ease discomfort from both conditions, but if there’s a significant relief in ear pain symptoms specifically after using pain relief, it might point more towards an ear infection.
When to See a Doctor
It’s important to consult a healthcare provider if:
- Symptoms persist or worsen after a few days.
- Your child has a high fever (for infants under 3 months, any fever should be evaluated by a doctor).
- You notice fluid, pus, or bloody discharge from the ear.
- Your child is very irritable, has trouble sleeping, or shows signs of hearing difficulty.
A healthcare professional can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend the best course of treatment, which may include antibiotics for an ear infection or simply supportive care for a cold.
