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Treatment for an ear infection in children will depend on the type and severity. Doctors may prescribe antibiotic ear drops for some infections, such as acute otitis extern, but in many cases, the child’s immune system will fight the infection on its own. Other infections, such as otitis media with effusion, will usually clear up on their own without any antibiotics. 1
Doctors usually advise caregivers to watch their child for 2 to 3 days to give the kid’s immune system the chance to fight off the infection without the need for antibiotics. 1
Within the first 24 hours, around 60 % of children feel better. That figure rises to between 80 and 90 percent of children within a few days. 1
During this time, doctors will probably recommend that caregivers treat the symptoms of the infection at home. Remedies may include:
- Over-the-counter medication. If your child’s ear infection is causing pain that is particularly severe or persistent, call your child’s doctor. If it is mild to moderate pain, or if it is making it hard for your child to sleep, your doctor might suggest using an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Use the child’s weight (not age) to determine the correct dose, and verify the correct amount with your child’s doctor; use only the measuring tools included in the packaging (do not use a kitchen teaspoon). 2
- Warm compress. Holding a warm compress to the child’s ear may also help ease the pain. 1
- Fluids. Giving the child plenty of fluids to drink encourages swallowing, which can help drain the middle ear and relieve painful pressure. 1
- Try gently massaging the neck to help the lymph nodes drain fluid away from the ears. Use gentle, plant-based body oil. 2
If there is no improvement or the infection gets worse during this time, your child’s doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Always contact him for more advice and monitor your child’s fever. 1
Dr. Jihad Fadel
Pediatrician
