Question
A 12-year-old boy, in elementary school, has been scratching his ear and complaining of itching for a week. This morning, there was some thick, yellow earwax, and he also seems to have little appetite and is quite weak. How should a child with otitis media and an itchy ear be treated?
Answer
It is recommended that parents choose appropriate antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs under a doctor’s guidance for the child to alleviate inflammatory symptoms. In addition to systemic medication, regional treatment can also be performed using anti-inflammatory ear drops. If the pain is severe, some painkillers can be administered. Additionally, if there is a fever, antipyretic medication can be taken. In case of high fever, it is advisable to seek medical attention. These methods are commonly used in the treatment of otitis media. If there is a perforation of the eardrum, timely surgical treatment is required. During the treatment period, it is important to ensure the child gets adequate nutrition, eat a light diet, and get plenty of rest, avoiding fatigue.