Otitis Media (OM)
Otitis media is an infection affecting the middle ear. Ear infections are quite common in small children and infants. With children, the Eustachian tubes, which help to drain normal ear secretions and run from the middle ear all the way to the back of the throat are more horizontal and much shorter in children. This may cause the tubes to be clogged and infected with viruses and bacteria. The middle ear is located just behind the eardrums. If you’re suffering from OM, you may be referred to an otolaryngologist who focuses on otolaryngology in Newport Beach, CA. Ear infections usually resolve themselves in most cases, especially if the infection is viral and cannot be treated with antibiotics. If you’re experiencing ear pain, don’t try any remedies on your own for treating oitis media, especially those that require you to insert something in the ear.
Treatment with Medicine
Given a bit of time, the human immune system can fight off ear infections and heal the ear. This can even happen within a day or two. Because most ear infections actually get better by themselves, physicians recommend the “wait-and-see” approach, which involves pain relief without using antibiotics for treatment. The approach is ideal for children between the ages of six months to over two years, who’ve never experienced ear pain before. The overuse of antibiotics has led to the increase in antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Additionally, antibiotics can’t treat infections caused by a virus.
However, take antibiotic medication if the infection persists and does not go away on its own. The physician might describe a 10-day course of antibiotics which can potentially shorten symptoms and treat the infection. Common antibiotics include Amoxicillin or Zithromax. Antibiotics are usually suitable for people who get regular ear infections or those whose infections are extremely painful. Antibiotics should work well. Expected side effects include diarrhea, vomiting, rashes and nausea. If the infection is not caused by a virus, the doctor will not prescribe antibiotics.
Pain Management
To lessen the pain and throbbing ache, place a warm wash cloth that is slightly moist, over the affected ear. A hot towel, dipped in warm-to-hot water and wrung can also be used. Alternatively, you can heat a cup of salt or rice until it’s warm, and not too hot, then bundle it in a washcloth or sock and place it over the ear.
Use pain medication recommended by your doctor, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, which can help relieve pain and ease the discomfort. For children, the amount of painkillers taken should be based on their weight and the instructions that come with the medication. Never give children or teens under nineteen aspirin. It has been linked with Reye’s syndrome, a rare disorder that causes severe brain and liver damage in teenagers and children. You can also administer ear drops if you’re in considerable pain. If you are unsure about medication, consult your physician.
Natural Remedies
Ear infections can also be treated with natural remedies. You can try natural antimicrobial remedies before making an appointment with your doctor. However, this should not be done with children as you may not be sure if they’re suffering from a cut in the ear, a tumor or a perforated eardrum. However, you can use garlic oil and coconut oil, as they both have antibacterial and antiviral properties. They have been used for various kinds of treatments for a long time.
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