Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Illustration
Ear Infection (Otitis Media) (for Teenagers)
DESCRIPTION
An ear infection is a bacterial infection of the middle ear
(the space behind the eardrum). It usually is a
complication of a cold, occurring after the cold blocks off
the eustachian tube (the passage connecting the middle ear
to the back of the throat). Your ear is painful because
trapped, infected fluid puts pressure on the eardrum,
causing it to bulge. Other symptoms are irritability and
poor sleep.
In 5% to 10% of ear infections, the pressure in the middle
ear causes the eardrum to rupture and drain a yellow or
cloudy fluid. This small tear usually heals over the next
week. Ear infections are uncommon after 10 years of age, but
can occur in anyone.
If the following treatment is carried out you should be fine.
Permanent damage to the ear or to the hearing is very rare.
HOME TREATMENT
- Antibiotics
You need the antibiotic prescribed by your physician.
This medicine will kill the bacteria that are causing
the ear infection.
Try not to forget any of the doses. Even though you
will feel better in a few days, take the antibiotic
until it is completely gone. Finishing the medicine
will keep the ear infection from flaring up again.
- Pain relief
Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to help with the
earache or fever over 102 degrees F (39 degrees C) for a
few days until the antibiotic takes effect. These
medications usually control the pain within 1 to 2 hours.
Earaches tend to hurt more at bedtime.
To help ease the pain, you can put an ice bag or ice
wrapped in a wet washcloth over the ear. This may
decrease the swelling and pressure inside. Some
physicians recommend a heating pad instead. Remove the
cold or heat in 20 minutes to prevent frostbite or a
burn.
- Restrictions
You can go outside and don't need to cover your ears.
Swimming is permitted as long as there is no perforation
(tear) in the eardrum or drainage from the ear. Air
travel or a trip to the mountains is safe; just swallow
fluids or chew gum during descent. You can return to
school when you are feeling better and the fever is
gone. Ear infections are not contagious.
- Ear recheck
Your physician will schedule a return appointment in 2
to 3 weeks for you. At that visit, your eardrum will be
looked at to be certain that the infection is cleared up
and more treatment isn't needed. Your physician may
also want to test your hearing. Follow-up exams are
very important, particularly if the eardrum is
perforated.
CALL YOUR PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY IF:
- You develop a stiff neck.
- You feel very sick.
CALL YOUR PHYSICIAN DURING OFFICE HOURS IF:
- The fever or pain is not gone after you have taken the
antibiotic for 48 hours.
- You have other questions or concerns.
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