Read up on Ear infection treatment options at Consumer Reports Health.

Ear infection

Key points about treatments

Ear infections are painful, but they normally clear up without treatment in a few days. Painkillers can help. Some children might need antibiotics but antibiotics can have side effects.

Key points about treating an ear infection

Taking painkillers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can help reduce the pain from ear

infection
You get an infection when viruses, bacteria, fungi or other tiny organisms get into your body. These bugs are so tiny that you can't see them without a microscope. For example, an infection in your airways causes the common cold. And an infection in your skin can cause rashes such as athlete's foot.

infections.
Taking antibiotics might help clear up your child's ear infection more quickly. But antibiotics don't clear up all ear infections, and they have side effects.
Your child might be less likely to get an ear infection if they take antibiotics regularly for a long time. But antibiotics can cause side effects. And taking them for a long time might mean they won't work for a more serious infection.
There are things you can do that might help prevent ear infections. See How to help keep your child from getting ear infections for more information.

This information was last updated on May 12, 2009

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment.
© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2009. All rights reserved.

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