Patient's question:
My child is a boy, 3 years old. Recently, he has been scratching his ears and complaining of itching. Additionally, the earwax is a bit thick and yellowish, and he also has poor appetite and a sore throat. I would like to ask: How should otitis media with purulent discharge be diagnosed and treated in children?Doctor's answer:
It is recommended that parents choose appropriate antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs for their children under the guidance of a doctor, which can relieve inflammatory symptoms. Ear secretion bacterial culture can be performed, and anti-inflammatory ear drops can be used based on the test results. If the child has severe ear pain, it is advisable to give them pain relief medication depending on the situation. Some children may also have a fever at the time, in which case oral fever-reducing medication can be given. If symptoms cannot be relieved, it is essential to seek medical attention. In cases where there is a perforation of the eardrum, parents can consider surgical treatment for their child. Parents should also pay attention to protective measures for their children to prevent recurrent otitis media.