Why Does My 2Yo Insist That We Press on Her Ear When She Goes to Bed???

Updated on June 24, 2009
J.D. asks from Palatine, IL
5 answers

This must seem crazy...and my dh and I are perplexed. A few weeks ago, we saw my 2 year old holding her ear. She has had ear infections in the past - stubborn, at times, and we wanted to nip that in the bud if we could. She was not running a temp, but we were flying in a few days, so we took her to the dr. to get things checked out. No ear infection. We flew with no incident and she is not sick. I brought her back to the dr. last weekend, because she still does it. NO INFECTION....Here we are 3 weeks later, and she INSISTS on someone covering and pressing on her ear when she lies down to go to sleep. Like I said, this probably sounds crazy, but I feel like something must be wrong and as her mom I have to get to the bottom of it!

I've tried teaching her to hold her nose and blow to push out pressure if her ears need to pop - I am giving her teething tablets when she chews on her fingers or asks for them, but there's no change....

I feel that it may be teeth-related, and the dr said it could be, but there's nothing he could see. (Unlike the payment for those 2 5-minute visits, right? - Gotta laugh - tears are salty. :-) )

Has anyone ever experienced this? Any suggestions? THANKS!!!

1 mom found this helpful

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So What Happened?

I appreciate your stories and suggestions SO much. I do believe it is a comfort related behavior, whether it is teeth related or just soothing in general, and I will keep an eye on things. At this point in time, we will leave the drs alone, I will re-post if something develops. Thanks again for taking the time to write and share your kindnesses.

More Answers

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N.W.

answers from Chicago on

When I have ear infections and my ear hurts, pressing on it seems to warm the ear and make it feel better.

Even though your daughter doesn't have an ear infection anymore, she may be afraid her ear MIGHT hurt when she lies down. As humans we tend to avoid things that caused us pain in the past, even when they no longer present a danger. Like if you ate a food that was spoiled and got nauseated, you may get nauseated again when you smell the same food at a different time.

I wouldn't worry about it too much. She'll eventually realize her ear does NOT hurt when she goes to sleep and will stop one day. Just give it some time.

1 mom found this helpful
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D.V.

answers from Chicago on

Hi J.-

My son does something similar to this when he is tired/getting ready for bed. He's 21 months and for the last few months he will take my hand and place it on the side of his face (sometimes covering his ear, sometimes not). I think it's a comfort thing and maybe a way he shows love (since he doesn't have the words yet). He doesn't do it every day, but does it in such a way that it's a very sweet and tender "request" (like he's asking for a hug for his face almost). I know it sounds crazy, but she might just want that skin to skin contact.

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J.K.

answers from Chicago on

Do you just press on her ears for a few seconds, or does she insist that you press on them until she falls asleep? If it's that later, try using ear muffs or noise canceling headphones.

I'm not saying that she has sensory problems, but for some kids who do have sensory problems, they like the pressure on their ears.

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

S.E.

answers from Chicago on

I think I would go see an ear, nose and throat doctor not just her regular doctor. She may be having some inner ear problems. If your are really concerned that is the only route to go to give you piece of mind.
You also could just call an Ear, Nose and Throat Dr. and ask a few question to the nurse over the phone and see what she thinks. Also did you try asking this question on webmd.com You might get some clarity there.
If it was me it would be E,N & T doctor. My son had tubes before he was 2 and I am so glad he did. Solved a lot of problems in his health. Problems with the inner ear can lead to problems with balance, headaches and even nausea.

Good Luck
S.

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

R.K.

answers from Chicago on

My son wanted me to put my hand over his ear when he was going to sleep because of an ear infection. It then stopped for a while after the infection cleared up, but with his recent teething episode he started doing it again. I think it's partly to combat the pain and partly just for comfort.

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