How ENTs Diagnose Ear Infections in Children Posted on February 14, 2025 by Arizona Desert Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists Ear infections are more common in children than adults because their immune systems have not yet fully developed and their Eustachian tubes are smaller, which makes it difficult for fluid to drain. This can lead to uncomfortable symptoms for your child, but our compassionate team at Arizona Desert Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists is here to provide treatment to get them back on the path of full health so they can enjoy their favorite activities again. Ear Infection Symptoms Particularly if your child does not yet communicate verbally, keep an eye out for fussiness or pulling on their ears. Additional symptoms of pediatric ear infections include: Low fever Complaining of pressure or pain in the ear Not responding to sounds Loss of appetite Loss of balance Trouble sleeping If you think your child has an ear infection, our team can help. We’ll determine what’s causing their symptoms so we can provide the best-personalized care. What To Expect During a Doctor Visit To diagnose an ear infection, your provider will perform a thorough exam of your child’s ears, nose and throat. They will also ask for a health history, if they have had any recent illnesses and the length and severity of their symptoms. Additional diagnostic testing may include: Using a tympanometer in your child’s ear to measure the flexibility of the eardrum Blood tests to see if there is a viral or bacterial infection An ear culture, where fluid is removed from the ear to determine if it contains an infection X-rays to see the inside of the ear Along with painful symptoms, an untreated ear infection can lead to hearing loss, but our team is here to provide the treatment they need. Make an appointment with one of our compassionate providers to get started. Can Allergies Be the Cause of Frequent Ear InfectionsHow Are ENT Disorders Diagnosed?How Is Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Treated?