Patient's question:
My daughter is 6 years old. Recently, she has been complaining of ear pain. In the morning, her earwax is a bit thick and yellowish. Also, she hasn't been eating well and her throat feels uncomfortable. Please advise: How should acute otitis media with purulent earwax be diagnosed and treated in children?Doctor's answer:
The first step in treating pediatric otitis media is for parents to give their child some anti-inflammatory medication. They can also perform a bacterial culture of the ear discharge and use anti-inflammatory ear drops based on the test results. Depending on the child's condition, pain relievers can be given, especially when the ear pain is severe, to help alleviate the discomfort. If the child has a high fever, appropriate doses of fever-reducing medication should be used. In more serious cases, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. If the patient exhibits severe symptoms, such as a ruptured eardrum, immediate hospitalization and surgical treatment are necessary. During this period, it is important to ensure the child gets sufficient rest and consumes more fruits and vegetables.