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KidsCare Online

Earache (Ear Pain)

Should I Call?

    Call 911 NOW (your child may need an ambulance) IF:
  • Not moving or too weak to stand.
    Call Your Doctor NOW (night or day) IF your child has any ONE of the following:
  • Your child looks or acts very sick.
  • Earache is severe and not imporved 2 hours after taking ibuprofen.
  • Pink or red swelling behind the ear.
  • Stiff neck (unable to touch chin to chest).
  • Fever above 105°F (40.6°C).
  • Pointed object was inserted into the ear canal (e.g., a pencil, stick, or wire).

Action: If you are unable to reach your doctor - go to a nearby KidsCare clinic or to a local hospital Emergency Department.

Use our Facility Search to find an urgent care clinic near you.

    Call Your Doctor WITHIN 24 HOURS (during regular daytime office hours) IF:
  • Earache, but none of the symptoms described above (probably an ear infection).
  1. Symptom Description
  2. Care at Home?

Parent Care for Pediatric Symptoms. Copyright © 2000-2008. Barton D. Schmitt, MD
Reviewed/Modified: Jan 2008 by Intermountain Healthcare, Inc.


© 2007 Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, Utah. All Rights Reserved.