Coming to you all the way from Portland, Oregon – Part III of my series on middle ear infections (or acute otitis media, if you want to throw in the scientific name).
Also check out Part I and Part II to see what we’ve already covered.
Here ya go!
At what point do I start worrying that my child may need an antibiotic to treat their ear infection?
Some guidelines have been set-up to help decide whether antibiotic therapy should be used or not.
According to these guidelines, antibiotics are recommended for use in children less than 2 years of age and in children older than 2 where both ears are infected or where there is discharge from the affected ear.
Children older than 2 years who have mild symptoms of AOM and only one infected ear can take the “watchful waiting” approach.
With the “watchful waiting” option, you would observe your child’s condition for 48 to 72 hours, and if the signs or symptoms of AOM worsen or persist, you would follow-up with your child’s physician.
At this point, the physician would most likely start your child on a course of antibiotics. The “watchful waiting” option is not appropriate in those cases where follow-up cannot be ensured or where parents or caretakers do not understand the risks and benefits of this kind of approach.
I know what you’re probably thinking; there is no way you’re going to take the chance with this watchful waiting deal. But just think, one less medication means fewer medication side effects and an opportunity to avoid being involved with the antibiotic resistance saga.
You know your child the best; you will be able to tell if they are not getting better. You can do it – I have faith in you!
You know the drill – e-mail me (cate@getpharmacyadvice.com), comment on this article, keep the discussion going!
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