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Treatment
Treatments include:
Medication
Antibiotics are commonly used to treat ear infections. Examples include:
- Amoxicillin (Amoxil, Polymox)
- Clavulanate (Augmentin)
Other medications sometimes used include:
- Cephalosporins (cefprozil, cefdinir, cefpodoxime, ceftriaxone)
- Sulfa drugs (Septra, Bactrim, Pediazole)
Since bacteria develop a resistance to antibiotics, doctors may take a "wait and see" approach. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic for your child and ask you to use the medication if the pain or fever lasts for a certain number of days. This approach has been effective. *
Some ear infections are caused by a virus. This type will not go away faster with antibiotics. Most middle ear infections (including bacterial ones) tend to improve on their own in 2-3 days.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Pain relievers can help reduce pain, fever, and irritability. These include:
- Acetaminophen
- Ibuprofen
- Note: Aspirin is not recommended for children with a current or recent viral infection. Check with your doctor before giving a child aspirin.
Decongestants and antihistamines are not recommended to treat an ear infection. *²
Ear Drops
Ear drops may help decrease pain. If there is a chance that the eardrum has ruptured, do not use ear drops.
Myringotomy
Myringotomy is surgery done to open the eardrum. A tiny cut is made in the eardrum to drain fluid and pus.
If you are diagnosed with an ear infection, follow your doctor's instructions .
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.