Treatment Options for Ear Infections in Infants

 Ear infections are common in babies and young children. The most frequent kind of ear infection in babies is called otitis media, which is an infection behind the eardrum, in the middle ear. It may start with a cold and can cause pain, fever, fussiness, and poor sleep

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Antibiotics

Many doctors will prescribe an antibiotic, such as amoxicillin, to be taken over seven to ten days

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. Children under six months are usually given an antibiotic, while those over six months old and with mild symptoms may not need antibiotics

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. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends shared decision-making between parents and providers about whether to treat ear infections that are not severe. The best course is often to watch the child for two to three days before prescribing antibiotic treatment

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. If the child is in pain, or the ear infection is advanced, immediate antibiotic treatment may be necessary

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Pain Relief

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help with fever and pain

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. If the eardrum is not ruptured, pain-relieving ear drops may also be recommended

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Home Remedies

Home remedies can also help ease discomfort. These include placing a warm, moist compress over the child's ear for about 10 to 15 minutes, giving the child extra fluids, and using over-the-counter medicines to relieve pain or fever

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. Breastfeeding infants for at least six months can also help prevent ear infections

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.It's important to follow the doctor's instructions carefully and make sure the child takes the full course of antibiotics, even if they seem better in a few days. Stopping the medicine too soon could allow the infection to come back

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. Additionally, it's important to return for the child's follow-up visit, so the doctor can check if the infection is gone

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.If you have any concerns about your child's ear infection, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider.

Sources

1. Ear Infections in Children, Babies & Toddlers | NIDCD
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2. Ear Infection (Otitis Media) in Babies 0 to 2 Years: Care Instructions - My Health Alberta
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3. Treating ear infections in children - Harvard Health
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4. Ear Infection | Antibiotic Use | CDC
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5. Home Remedies for Your Baby's Ear Infection - Healthline
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6. Can you treat baby ear infection without antibiotics? - Medical News Today
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7. Ear Infections in Babies and Toddlers | Johns Hopkins Medicine
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8. Middle Ear Infections (Otitis Media) (for Parents) - Nemours KidsHealth
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9. Patient education: Ear infections (otitis media) in children (Beyond the Basics) - UpToDate
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