Ear Infection
Acute Otitis Media
Ear infection Basics:
- Acute otitis media is an infection in the middle ear that sometimes occurs during or after a cold or viral illness. This is different from an external or “swimmer’s ear” infection.
- Symptoms can include: fever, ear pain/tugging, fussiness, decreased appetite, trouble hearing, vomiting.
- Antibiotics are commonly used to treat ear infections. If started, the entire course of antibiotics should be taken as prescribed, even if symptoms improve quickly. If your child is 2 or older, healthy, and doesn’t have high fevers or severe pain your doctor may choose to wait 24-48 hours before starting antibiotics.
- Antibiotic side effects include diarrhea, upset stomach, allergic reactions, or rashes.
- Ear infections are not contagious so your child can return to school/daycare once fever free for 24 hours without needing fever reducing medications.
- Children with frequent ear infections (ie, 3 in 6 months or 4 in 12 months) may benefit from seeing an Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist (ENT) to discuss ear tube surgery.
- Routine childhood vaccines help prevent ear infections.
General Treatment:
- Your doctor may elect to start an antibiotic based on your child’s age and symptoms.
- Fever/Pain control: Use Acetaminophen every 4 – 6 hours (up to 5 times/day) and Ibuprofen every 6 hours (up to 4 times/day) to control fever. These may be alternated or given together.
- Hydration – We expect a minimum of 4 voids per day. Small, frequent sips of water, Pedialyte or formula/breast milk are best.
- Congestion – Use nasal saline drops/spray followed by suction or nose blowing; humidifiers and steamy bathrooms can also help improve congestion. Clearing the nose helps ears drain more efficiently.
When to seek care:
- If symptoms (fever or bad ear pain) are still present 72 hours after starting treatment
- If your child is not making a minimum of 4 voids per day
- If you notice bloody drainage from the ear
- If your child develops a significant rash
- If you are concerned
When to go to the Emergency Room:
- If your child is in respiratory distress (wheezing, trouble breathing)
- If your child is lethargic or difficult to arouse
- If your child is showing signs of severe dehydration: lethargy, little/no urine output, dry lips, sunken fontanelle (soft spot)
- If you are worried
Reach Out To Us
At POP NOW we offer convenient and accessible same day sick visits! We are fully committed to helping your child feel better and getting everyone back to school, work, and daily routines as quickly and safely as possible. .
Reach Out To Us
Feel free to contact us if you have any querie related to our services at our earliest .