What should you know about ear ache and fever?

Ear pain may come from inflammation in the middle ear, the ear canal or tissues around the ear. A fever is the body’s response to infection or inflammation. The combination can accompany a common cold, COVID-19, croup or another respiratory illness; children may also pull at the ear, sleep poorly or become irritable.

Ear ache and fever do not identify one condition by themselves. A clinician considers age, duration, hearing changes, discharge, breathing symptoms and the appearance of the eardrum. Skin redness or swelling near the ear can point to a separate problem needing assessment.

Offer regular fluids and rest. Keep the ear dry and do not insert cotton buds or other objects. Use only pain or fever medicine that is suitable for the person’s age and health, following the label or a clinician’s advice; never give a child aspirin unless specifically directed.

A warm cloth held gently against the outer ear may feel soothing. Do not use leftover antibiotic drops or tablets. If symptoms are mild and improving, continue observing comfort, drinking, temperature and hearing.

Arrange prompt assessment for severe or worsening pain, fluid or pus from the ear, new hearing loss, repeated vomiting, marked dizziness or fever that persists. Seek urgent help for swelling behind the ear, a stiff neck, severe headache, confusion, breathing difficulty or a child who is unusually difficult to wake.

Babies, people with weakened immunity and anyone with recent ear surgery may need earlier advice. A clinician can examine the ear and decide whether treatment or follow-up is needed.

Ask which part of the ear appears inflamed, whether the eardrum can be seen clearly, which pain relief is suitable, and which changes should trigger urgent review.