Ear infection - hearing

[whenitrains5]

My son was given antibiotics on Monday for an ear infection. I have noticed that he either doesn't realise I'm talking to him or needs me to speak loudly unless I'm right next to him.

Do I need to be concerned here? Please tell me things will go back to normal when the infection clears up....

It can take quite a while for hearing to go back to normal after an ear infection. Have symptoms started to improve since taking the ABs (pain, temp, etc)? I'd give a week or so, but I honestly wouldn't be overly worried. If he gets recurring ear infections, I think that is when you need to worry about hearing impact, but you can talk to the GP if his hearing doesn't seem improve after a while.

Thanks @TravelDazzle - in himself he seems a lot better since taking the ABX but he's not 100% yet. He had a really really nasty ear infection last year and now we have another so I think I'm overly worrying as prior to that he had never had one

Dont leave this too long. If you are worried go to the GP. My GD was almost completely deaf before she was diagnosed as needing grommets.

@mdh2020 was this alongside an ear infection?

Your son needs oral steroids as fast as possible to avoid possible permanent hearing loss. Not all gp's are aware of this.

Thanks all. I'm waiting for a call back from the GP

I think it can be normal but, not to frighten you, I have permanent hearing loss from a childhood ear infection. Hopefully this will be checked out and monitored by your GP (or a referral can be made to a children's ENT specialist). Sending get well wishes to your little one, ear infections can be miserable.

Thank you. I've spoken to GP - she didn't seem concerned and said it was common but if we were still worried in a week or two to definitely call back