A–Z Glossary

eardrum

The tympanic membrane is the eardrum, the thin structure in front of the middle ear that clinicians examine for infection signs.

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Search results for: eardrum

Why babies pull ears

Why babies pull ears

Normal discovery and self-soothing One of the most common reasons babies pull their ears is also one of the least alarming: they have found them. Infants gradually learn that their hands can reach different body parts, and the ear is easy to grasp. Pulling, rubbing, folding, or patting the ear may simply be sensory exploration. […]

When ear infection needs doctor

When ear infection needs doctor

Why babies need a lower threshold for medical review In babies, an ear infection may involve the middle ear, the air-filled space behind the eardrum. It commonly follows a viral upper respiratory infection, when congestion interferes with drainage through the eustachian tube. Pressure and inflammation can produce pain, fever, irritability, and disrupted sleep. However, these […]

Ear infection vs teething confusion

Ear infection vs teething confusion

Why the Confusion Happens Ear infection vs teething confusion happens because infants communicate discomfort with a limited behavioral vocabulary. A baby who has gum pressure may chew, cry, wake frequently, refuse a bottle or breast briefly, and rub the side of the face. A baby with acute otitis media may also cry, sleep poorly, feed […]