Is Your Toddler Tugging Their Ear? When to Worry (and When Not To)
Ear pulling in babies and toddlers is one of the most common reasons parents message me in a panic and I get it! It’s hard to tell what’s normal curiosity and what might be a sign of an ear infection.
Let’s break down the most common causes of ear tugging, signs of an actual infection, and when to check in with your pediatrician.
Why Is My Toddler Pulling Their Ear?
Not every tug means trouble. In fact, ear pulling can be totally normal, especially in:
Infants: discovering their ears for the first time
Teething toddlers: referred pain from their jaw or gums
Tired kids: similar to rubbing eyes or sucking thumbs
Kids with allergies or colds: pressure and fluid buildup can make ears feel funny
So when should you be concerned?
Signs It Might Be an Ear Infection
Ear infections (aka acute otitis media) often show up after a cold or congestion. Here are the top signs I tell Curitas families to look for:
Tugging one or both ears
Fussiness or sleep trouble
Fever (especially over 100.4°F)
Less interest in eating or drinking
Trouble lying flat (pain increases with pressure)
Fluid or pus draining from the ear (this needs immediate attention!)
Pro tip: A child can have an ear infection without tugging their ear at all, so always look at the whole picture..
What About Babies?
In babies too young to tell you “my ear hurts,” trust your gut and look for:
Inconsolable crying
Trouble feeding
Fever without an obvious cause
Poor sleep or waking more often than usual
When to See the Pediatrician
It’s time to call if:
Your child has fever + ear pain for more than 48 hours
There’s fluid draining from the ear
They're younger than 6 months and have any of the above symptoms
Pediatrician Tip: Not All Ear Infections Need Antibiotics
Yes, you read that right. Some mild ear infections can resolve on their own, especially in older toddlers and kids. Depending on symptoms and age, your pediatrician may recommend a “watch-and-wait” approach for 48–72 hours before prescribing antibiotics.
The Bottom Line
Ear pulling isn’t always something to panic about, but when paired with other symptoms, it can be your child’s way of saying, “Ouch, something’s wrong.” Trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to reach out.
Need Sick Visit Support?
If you’re in the Palm Beach area and want convenient, compassionate care — right at home — get in touch to schedule your Curitas Pediatrics sick visit today. House calls, texting access, and no waiting rooms. Because modern pediatrics should feel personal.
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