How Pediatricians Diagnose and Treat Ear Infections

Ear infections are among the most common reasons parents bring their children to the doctor, especially during cold and allergy seasons. At AFB Pediatrics in Pasadena, TX, Aldo F. Bejarano, MD, provides expert care for children experiencing ear pain, helping parents understand what’s happening and what treatments are likely to help. Knowing how pediatricians diagnose and manage ear infections can help families respond calmly and confidently when symptoms arise.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Ear infections often develop after a cold or upper respiratory infection. When fluid becomes trapped behind the eardrum, bacteria or viruses can multiply, causing inflammation and pain. Infants and toddlers may tug at their ears, cry more than usual, have trouble sleeping, or run a fever. Older children may complain of ear pain, muffled hearing, or a sense of fullness in the ear. If symptoms persist or are severe, it’s important to contact your child’s pediatrician.

How Pediatricians Diagnose Ear Infections

Dr. Bejarano and our pediatric providers perform ear examinations using an otoscope, a small, lighted instrument that allows us to look inside the ear canal. A red, bulging eardrum with visible fluid behind it usually confirms a middle ear infection (otitis media). In some cases, our pediatricians may use a pneumatic otoscope or tympanometry to check how the eardrum responds to air pressure, which helps determine if fluid is present. These tools make it possible to distinguish between a viral infection that may resolve on its own and a bacterial infection that requires treatment.

Treatment Options for Ear Infections

Treatment depends on the child’s age, the severity of symptoms, and whether the infection is caused by bacteria or a virus. Mild cases often clear without antibiotics, especially in older children. In these instances, Dr. Bejarano may recommend watchful waiting along with pain relief using acetaminophen or ibuprofen (these should be used according to a pediatrician's instructions). Warm compresses can also soothe discomfort.

If the infection is bacterial or symptoms are persistent, antibiotics are prescribed to eliminate it. For children who experience frequent or chronic ear infections, Dr. Bejarano may refer them for an evaluation by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. In some cases, ear tubes may be recommended to help with fluid drainage and reduce the risk of future infections.

Preventing Future Ear Infections

Simple preventive steps can reduce the likelihood of recurrent ear infections. Keeping children up to date on vaccines, practicing good hand hygiene, and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke all help protect ear health. Breastfeeding during infancy and feeding babies in an upright position can also lower the risk.

At AFB Pediatrics in Pasadena, TX, Dr. Aldo F. Bejarano provides personalized, family-centered care to help children recover quickly and comfortably from ear infections. Parents can count on his team for clear communication, practical guidance, and support for every stage of their child’s health and development. If your child has a possible ear infection or needs medical care for any other reason, call us at (832) 386-9200.