Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
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Illustration
Ear Infection - Brief Version
For an illustration of the ear, click here
What is an ear infection?
Your child's ear may hurt when the space behind the eardrum
is infected. Your child may also:
- Be cranky.
- Not be able to sleep well.
Most children will have at least one ear infection. Some
will have them again and again. It is important to get the
care your child needs. Good care helps prevent hearing
problems and holes in the eardrum.
How can I take care of my child?
Here are some things you should know:
- Antibiotics. Your child may need an antibiotic. This
medicine will kill the bacteria that cause ear
infections. Your child will start to feel better in a
few days. But keep giving the medicine until it is all
gone.
- Fever and pain. Use acetaminophen (Tylenol) or
ibuprofen (Advil) to help with the earache or fever over
102ƒF (39ƒC). No aspirin.
- Going outside. Your child can go outside. Your child
does not need to cover the ears.
- Swimming. Swimming is OK as long as there is no tear
in the eardrum or drainage from the ear.
- Air travel. Air travel or a trip to the mountains is
safe. Have your child drink something, suck on a
pacifier, or chew gum when you come back down.
Call your child's doctor right away if:
- Your child gets a stiff neck.
- Your child acts very sick.
Call your child's doctor during office hours if:
- Your child still has pain or fever after taking the
antibiotic for 48 hours.
- You have other questions or concerns.
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