Gwangju Sorisup ENT Clinic: I was worried about why my baby was touching his ears.

My 15-month-old baby has been frequently rubbing and touching his ears lately, and I was concerned about discomfort or pain. I visited an otolaryngologist. An endoscopy was performed to examine the baby's ear. While no serious inflammation, such as acute otitis media, was found in the external auditory canal or eardrum, some irritation and inflammation were observed inside the ear. The doctor explained that temporary itching and discomfort may be due to toothache, residual symptoms from a cold, or earwax irritation. Accordingly, I prescribed medication to relieve the inflammation and itching, and we will monitor the progress by taking the medication regularly (or using ear drops) for a certain period of time. I was also advised to avoid frequently touching the ears with cotton swabs or fingers, and to return if the symptoms worsen or are accompanied by fever, irritability, or sleep disturbance.