Earache pain from a middle ear infection

is usually described as severe and stabbing 

accompanied by a feeling of fullness in the ear. 

It occurs commonly in childhood and often 

develops while the child has cold symptoms.

To provide some relief from pain, take acetaminophen (for dosage see "acetaminophen/ibuprofen dosing'') and place an electric heating pad on the low setting against the ear. Do not let the child sleep with the heating pad turned on. You can also try adding 2-3 drops of warmed olive oil or sweet oil to ear canal.

If there is persistent pain, an associated high temperature, or drainage from the ear please notify us. We will need to check for possible infection.