Question
My child is a 5-year-old boy. This week, he has been scratching his ears, saying they are itchy, and has some thin, yellow earwax. He also has a low-grade fever. How should I treat pediatric otitis media with purulent discharge?
Answer
Treatment for otitis media should involve symptomatic anti-inflammatory medication based on the child’s symptoms. Parents can apply anti-inflammatory ear drops locally, and if there is ear pain, appropriate painkillers can be given. Some children may have a fever as well, in which case oral fever-reducing medication can be administered. If symptoms do not improve, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. In severe cases where there is a perforation of the eardrum, surgical treatment may be necessary. After the condition improves, it is recommended to engage in moderate exercise to enhance immunity and prevent recurrence.