Access information on common Ear infection questions at Consumer Reports Health.

Ear infection

Questions to ask your doctor

If your child has been diagnosed with an ear infection, you might want to talk to your doctor to find out more.

Here are some questions that you might want to ask.

How do you know that my child has an 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.

infection?
What tests has my child had, and what do the results mean? Does my child need any other tests?
Why does my child have an ear infection?
What are the best treatments for my child?
Are

antibiotics
These medications are used to help your immune system fight infection. There are a number of different types of antibiotics that work in different ways to get rid of bacteria, parasites and other infectious agents. Antibiotics do not work against viruses.

antibiotics necessary? Will my child get better without them?
What can I do if my child's ear hurts or if my child has a

fever
If you have a fever, your body temperature is above 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius). With a fever you often get other symptoms, such as shivering, headache or sweating. A fever is usually caused by an infection.

fever?
Can I do anything to stop my child from getting more ear infections? What if my child gets ear infections all the time?

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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