Question
My 8-year-old son has been experiencing ear pain this week. I’ve noticed that there’s occasionally yellow fluid coming out of his ear, and he also has a headache and fever. How should I treat the yellow discharge in his ear due to otitis media?
Answer
Generally, if a child has otitis media, it is effective to administer symptomatic antibiotics. You can also perform a bacterial culture of ear secretions and use anti-inflammatory ear drops based on the test results. If the child experiences ear pain, appropriate painkillers can be given. Some children may also have a fever, in which case oral antipyretics can be administered. If symptoms do not subside, it is essential to seek medical attention. In severe cases where tympanic membrane perforation occurs, hospital surgery may be required. During treatment, it is important to ensure the child receives adequate nutrition, with a diet focusing on light and easy-to-digest foods. Rest should also be prioritized to avoid fatigue.