Question
Can pediatric otitis media lead to ear discharge?
Answer
Otitis media is a common ear inflammation, colloquially known as “rotten ear,” caused by bacteria entering the middle ear. When a patient’s resistance is low or bacterial toxins are enhanced, inflammation occurs, with symptoms including ear pain (worse at night), fever, chills, bitter taste in the mouth, red or yellow urine, and constipation. If the tympanic membrane perforates, pus may discharge from the ear, pain may ease, and it often coexists with chronic mastoiditis. Incomplete treatment during the acute stage may develop into chronic otitis media, leading to long-term discharge from the ear, which has irreversible long-term effects on hearing. For the treatment of otitis media, medication is usually required, which can include antibiotic solutions or a mixture of antibiotics with corticosteroids, such as 0.25% chloramphenicol solution, chloramphenicol-cortisone solution, ofloxacin ear drops, etc. It is important to treat promptly within the first seven days after symptoms appear (at least two weeks) to achieve better effects and faster recovery. In daily life, keeping the ears dry, avoiding spicy and irritating foods, drinking plenty of water, and getting adequate rest can all help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention promptly to avoid further hearing damage.