Question
An 8-year-old boy has been experiencing pain in his ear, with an increase in yellowish earwax, decreased appetite, and throat discomfort. How should one treat a child’s earache caused by otitis media?
Answer
For children with otitis media, parents can administer symptomatic anti-inflammatory medication and perform local treatments, such as using anti-inflammatory ear drops. If the child experiences severe pain and has a purulent discharge, it is advisable to take painkillers to alleviate symptoms. If fever is also present, consider using fever-reducing medication, and seek medical attention promptly if the condition is severe. In addition to medication, if the child develops serious symptoms such as perforation of the eardrum, surgery may be necessary. It is also important to arrange for a light diet and increase nutritional supplements to aid in recovery.