How will the doctor diagnose my child's ear infection?

How will the doctor diagnose my child's ear infection?

Jason Hamilton (Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon) gives expert video advice on: What is an ear infection?; What ear infection symptoms do children and teens experience?; What activities should I avoid if I have an ear infection? and more...

The diagnosis of otitis media occurs with a otologic exam. The doctor will place an otoscope in the ear, which helps to magnify the ear canal and the eardrum, and look for signs of an ear infection. The most common sign of otitis media is a bulging red eardrum, or your doctor may see infection, such as pus in the ear canal. That will let them know that there's an ear infection present.