Question
A boy, 8 years old, recently told me that his ear hurts a bit. His earwax is more and yellow in the morning, he has no appetite, and his throat feels uncomfortable. How should we treat the earache caused by otitis media in children?
Answer
Treatment for pediatric otitis media can involve symptomatic medication, including regional anti-inflammatory ear drops. When the child primarily exhibits ear pain, parents can give a moderate dose of pain reliever to alleviate the pain. Some children may have a fever as well, in which case oral fever-reducing medication can be administered. If the symptoms do not subside, it is imperative to seek medical attention. Otitis media often has a recurrent characteristic, and if there is an eardrum perforation, immediate medical attention should be sought. After the condition improves, it is recommended that the child engage in moderate exercise to enhance immunity and prevent recurrence.