goodtoknow says: Children are particularly prone to earache, a common symptom of an ear infection. Sometimes, though, it's caused by a build-up of mucus after a cold or it could even be a result of toothache. If your child's ear is infected they will probably have a fever too and feel generally unwell. Most ear infections clear up naturally within a few days without antibiotics although your child's hearing could be affected for a week or two. Infant paracetamol will help ease any pain.

For a full medical explanation of the causes, symptoms and treatments of ear infections from patient.co.uk, read on.

Ear infection is common in children, but can occur at any age. The main symptoms are earache and feeling unwell. Painkillers are the main treatment. Antibiotics are not usually needed but are prescribed in some cases. The infection usually clears within a few days.

What is an ear infection?

An ear infection means that the middle ear is infected. The middle ear is the eardrum and the small space behind the eardrum. An ear infection is sometimes called 'acute otitis media'.

How does an ear infection occur?

The small space behind the eardrum in the middle ear is normally filled with air. It is connected to the back of the throat by a tiny channel called the Eustachian tube.

The middle ear space sometimes becomes filled with mucus (fluid), often during a 'cold'. The mucus may then become infected by bacteria or viruses. Children with glue ear who have mucus behind their eardrum are more prone to ear infections. Sometimes an ear infection occurs 'out of the blue' for no apparent reason.

• Next: What are the symptoms of an ear infection?

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