Ear Infection or teething?

Mt daughter is 16 months old and over the last few days she is always covering her ears (as if she does not want to listen). I initially put it down to her teething but as it is still continuing and she is very restless at night so I was looking for some advise as I cannot get a doctors appointment untill next week.

[Bridget A. Hewitt, RN]

Hi and thanks for using the forum.

This could be an ear infection (it is possible for little ones to get double ear infections- meaning both ears).  You probably need to make a doctors appointment, but in the meantime, you can give her tylenol or motrin for the pain (I personally feel that motrin works better for ear pain).  You don't mention how much your daughter weighs, but follow the weight guideline on the bottle of medicine (don't go by age- the dosage by weight is more accurate).  This may subside on its own, or it may required a doctors visit and some antibiotics.   Make your appointment for next week and if she seems better in the meantime you can always cancel.   Good luck.

Bridget