An ear infection (acute otitis media) is most often a bacterial or viral infection that affects the middle ear, the air-filled space behind the eardrum that contains the tiny vibrating bones of the ear. Children are more likely than adults to get ear infections. Ear infections frequently are painful because of inflammation and buildup of fluids in the middle ear. Because ear infections often clear up on their own, treatment may begin with managing pain and monitoring the problem. Ear infection in infants and severe cases in general often require antibiotic medications. Long-term problems related to ear infections — persistent fluids in the middle ear, persistent infections or frequent infections — can cause hearing problems and other serious complications. To find relief from ear infections, try to following:
About 80 percent of children's ear infection resolve on their own, without using antibiotics. Do alternative therapies work?Alternative ear infection treatments abound on the internet and in books and magazines. They include chiropractic adjustments, homeopathy, herbal eardrops and others. Perhaps you're seeking alternative treatments for your or your child's ear infection because you're concerned about using antibiotics or because your doctor has recommended watchful waiting. You may turn to alternative treatments to ease discomfort. In most cases, however, researchers haven't studied alternative ear infection treatments adequately using widely accepted scientific methods. For this reason, alternative ear infection treatments aren't generally recommended for use in children. Some alternative ear infection treatments have been studied with mixed results.
Before your child uses an alternative ear infection treatment, be sure to:
PreventionThe following tips may reduce the risk of developing ear infections:
This information is provided by Mayo Clinic Staff. Related articlesWhat is the fastest way to get fluid out of your ear?Dos for Getting Water Out of Your Ears. Dry your outer ear with a soft towel or cloth. ... . Tip your head to one side to help water drain. ... . Turn your blow dryer on the lowest setting and blow it toward your ear. ... . Try over-the-counter drying drops.. To make drying drops at home, mix 1 part white vinegar to 1 part rubbing alcohol.. How do you drain fluid filled ears?A myringotomy is a procedure to create a hole in the ear drum to allow fluid that is trapped in the middle ear to drain out. The fluid may be blood, pus and/or water. In many cases, a small tube is inserted into the hole in the ear drum to help maintain drainage.
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