Guide To Ear Infection Diagnosis And Treatment

Warm Compress

Patients with ear infections may find applying a warm compress to their ears helps to reduce pain. To make a compress, wet a washcloth with water as hot as possible while still being tolerable. After wringing out the cloth, place it over the affected ear, and keep it in place until it becomes cold. This process can be repeated with the other ear if needed. If a washcloth is not available, a hot water bottle or microwaveable gel pack can be used. These should be wrapped in a towel or cover to prevent burns.

Some patients like to use anesthetic ear drops in conjunction with warm compresses for additional pain relief. If a warm compress does not provide relief, patients might want to try a cool compress instead. Patients who use compresses should continue to monitor their temperature and pain level. While a compress may feel soothing, any fever or pain that persists for more than forty-eight hours should be checked by a doctor.

Course Of Antibiotics

A course of antibiotics may be necessary for patients with ear infections who meet specific criteria. For example, infants younger than six months old will typically be offered antibiotics without an initial observation period, and antibiotics will also be prescribed for children with moderate to severe pain. Antibiotics are frequently offered to adults with ear infections, as individuals in this age group tend to have more severe symptoms.

Antibiotics may be given orally, and some are available as ear drops. Amoxicillin is among the most commonly prescribed antibiotics used in the treatment of ear infections. Patients will usually be on antibiotics for five to ten days, and they may need to return to the doctor for a checkup after this period. While taking amoxicillin, patients could notice a skin rash, headaches, stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea. Some individuals may develop swelling or blackening of the tongue, and vomiting could occur. Patients taking sulfa drugs, other antibiotics, or blood thinners should let their doctor know, as amoxicillin may interact with these medicines.