Question
A 8-year-old boy, in elementary school, has been experiencing ear pain this week. This morning, he was found to have purulent, yellow earwax. He also has a slight fever. How should one treat a child with decreased hearing due to otitis media?
Answer
The first step in treating pediatric otitis media is for parents to administer some anti-inflammatory medication to their child. Additionally, regional treatments can be performed, such as using anti-inflammatory ear drops. If the ear pain is severe, some painkillers can be appropriately given. If the child has a fever, parents can give the child fever-reducing medication or take them to the hospital immediately. Otitis media has a tendency to recur, and if there is a perforation of the eardrum, it requires timely treatment. During the treatment period, it is important to ensure the child is well-protected from colds to prevent exacerbation of symptoms.