Question
A six-month-old baby has pus-like discharge from the ear and is crying, what should the parents do?
Answer
Based on the description, it is likely to be purulent otitis media. Infants have a higher incidence of otitis media due to their relatively short and flat eustachian tubes, which easily allow bacteria to enter the middle ear and cause infection. Additionally, infants have weaker resistance, and systemic infections may also lead to otitis media. Treatment Suggestions: Please use antibiotics and local therapy under the guidance of an otorhinolaryngology specialist. The treatment period should be sufficient to prevent recurrence and conversion to chronic, to avoid affecting hearing. Preventive measures include: holding the baby upright after feeding to burp, avoiding liquids from entering the ear, not picking the ear yourself, treating upper respiratory infections, and if nasal congestion is severe, seeking medical attention promptly. Relieving nasal congestion is an effective way to prevent otitis media.