Question
A 8-year-old boy has been experiencing pain in his ear and yellowish earwax discharge over the past few days. He has lost his appetite and is feeling very tired. How should one treat otitis media affecting a child’s hearing?
Answer
Currently, the main treatment for pediatric otitis media in clinical practice is with antibiotic medications, using symptomatic medication based on the child’s symptoms, which has shown good results. Options include using anti-inflammatory ear drops for localized treatment, and painkillers can be administered to children with significant ear pain. If the child has a high fever, antipyretic medication can be considered. In severe cases, it is important to seek medical attention promptly, such as when there is an issue with eardrum perforation. It is recommended to maintain a light diet during treatment, focusing on fluids.