Question
A 7-year-old boy has been scratching his ears and saying they are itchy this week. This morning, I found that the earwax is purulent and slightly yellow. Besides, there is a buzzing sound in his ears and he has a slight fever. How should children with middle ear infection and itchy ears be treated?
Answer
Treatment should involve symptomatic anti-inflammatory medication based on the child’s symptoms. You can also complement this with some regional treatment methods, such as using anti-inflammatory ear drops. If the symptoms are mainly ear pain, consider giving some painkillers. Some children may also have a fever, in which case you can give them oral antipyretics. If the symptoms cannot be relieved, it is imperative to seek medical attention. In addition to these medication treatments, if the child’s condition is severe and there is a perforation in the eardrum, hospital surgery may be required. Parents should also pay attention to protecting their child to prevent a recurrence of middle ear infection.