Question
A ten-month-old baby constantly scratches their ears and has white discharge. The doctor diagnosed it as otitis media, but the symptoms have not improved after treatment. Will the dried discharge form crusts that affect hearing?
Answer
The baby’s condition may be caused by otitis media, an internal ear inflammation that can be caused by bacterial infection. Severe cases can indeed affect hearing. It is recommended to seek treatment from a regular otorhinolaryngology department, including cleaning the external ear canal and applying prescribed drops, as well as taking oral medication. Keep the ears dry and clean, and avoid the baby scratching their ears. After a period of treatment, symptoms should improve.