Expert: David Olson, MD - 11/1/2009

Question
My son is 22 months old.  Last week he had a simple cold without a fever.  We treated with lots of fluids and soups.  On Friday when he woke up he had a runny nose again, which developed into a cough.  His nose is running clear.  The cough is constant while he is awake, and sleep if he is not properly elevated.  However, today (one day later), he is pointing at his ear.  He is not saying that it hurts, but he continues to point at it.  I'm not sure if it is an ear infection or sinus pressure.  He has never had an ear infection.  
My question is does it sound like an ear infection to you, should I take him to his pediatrician?  He still does not have a fever. His temperature is absolutely normal.

Answer
Hi, Tia,

He may have an ear infection, but remember, in most kids who are healthy and have an ear infection, the infection will go away on its own.  So...if he is doing fine and just doing a bit of ear pointing, give him some tylenol and watch things.  If he seems to be getting worse and/or runs a fever, see the doctor.

Good luck, dr. Olson