Ear infections are a common problem for kids and should never be ignored.

Hi, I’m Dr. John Hellerstedt with the Children’s Health Minute, presented by this station and TexCare -- connecting families with CHIP and Children’s Medicaid.

Middle ear infections mostly strike children between the ages of six months and six years.

Be on the lookout for ear infections during and after a cold. They often occur from four to seven days after the cold begins.

Very young children typically can’t communicate well enough to tell you where it hurts so watch for fever, fussiness or other signs of discomfort.

Most ear infections are easy to treat but -- above all – they should never be ignored. Follow your doctor’s instructions on what to watch for and how to treat the ear infection. The doctor may want to check the ear again to be sure the infection is gone.

Keep your kids healthy. Call toll-free 1-877-KIDS NOW for information or when it’s time to renew your children’s health insurance. That’s 1-877-KIDS NOW.