Otitis media refers to the inflammation of the middle ear. While it can occur in adults, it is most common in children. It is typically caused by a sore throat, cold, influenza, allergies, or other types of respiratory infections. If your child develops any of the following symptoms of severe otitis media, seek treatment at a childrens urgent care Vestavia AL.
Otitis Media Symptoms
The symptoms of otitis media vary, however, some of the most common symptoms include earache, fever, dizziness, and balance problems. It may also cause ear redness, irritability, ear tugging, fluid draining from the ear, muffled hearing, and difficulty sleeping. Poor appetite, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may also occur. The physician at a childrens urgent care Vestavia AL will determine whether the otitis media is caused by a bacterial or viral infection or an allergy. The treatment will depend on the cause.
Otitis Media Treatments
If otitis media is caused by a bacterial infection, the physician will prescribe antibiotics. If viral in nature or caused by an allergy, antibiotics will not be prescribed because they will be ineffective. Medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may also be recommended for pain and fever. If the ear still contains fluid for more than a few months, the doctor may recommend that drainage tubes be inserted into the ears. Once the fluid has been drained, your child’s hearing and other symptoms may improve.
