Possible ear infection? Our new tool can help.
Ear infections are no fun—for you or your child. Our new ear infection kit* combines an FDA-listed smartphone app with a paper ear tip which detects middle ear fluid in your child’s ear. If the results and symptoms are consistent with an ear infection, we’ll call in a prescription to get your child feeling better quickly.
Fast, accurate test results from home
Trusted by board-certified doctors
*WavelyDx detects middle ear fluid, which is a key physical indicator of ear infections but does not necessarily mean your child has an ear infection. A subscription to Summer Health is required for purchase.
How it works
1
Install the app
After purchasing a kit, download the WavelyDx mobile app (iPhone only) using the access code you received with your ear kit and scan your child’s eardrum.
2
Download your results
Retrieve your WavelyDx clinical report. To learn more about how the phone uses acoustic pings to quickly identify fluid, click here.
3
Share with us
Text a Summer Health pediatrician who will help determine if your child has an ear infection and needs antibiotics in under 15 minutes. It’s that simple!
Ear pain FAQ
What are the common symptoms of ear infections in children?
Common symptoms of ear infections in children include ear pain (especially when lying down), tugging or pulling at an ear, trouble sleeping, increased fussiness, trouble hearing or responding to sounds, loss of balance, fever of 100 F (38 C) or higher, drainage of fluid from the ear, headache, and loss of appetite.
What causes ear infections in children?
Ear infections are typically caused by bacteria or viruses and often result from another illness such as a cold, flu, or allergy. These conditions can cause congestion and swelling of the nasal passages, throat, and eustachian tubes, leading to fluid build-up in the middle ear that can become infected.
How are ear infections treated in children?
Treatment for ear infections may vary depending on the cause. Many ear infections clear up on their own, and treatment often begins with managing pain and monitoring the problem. Antibiotics may be used for bacterial infections. Pain relief can be provided through medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
When should I take my child to see a doctor for an ear infection?
You should see a doctor if your child's symptoms last for more than a day, if symptoms are present in a child less than 6 months of age, if ear pain is severe, if your child is sleepless or irritable after a cold, or if there is a discharge of fluid, pus, or bloody fluid from the ear.
Can ear infections in children lead to complications?
Most ear infections don't cause long-term complications, but repeated infections can lead to hearing problems and other serious issues. Complications can include impaired hearing, speech or developmental delays, spread of infection to nearby tissues, and tearing of the eardrum. Prompt evaluation and treatment can reduce the risk of these complications.