Can you treat your child’s ear infection on your own, or will you always need antibiotics?

No one likes to see their child sick, but it’s just a fact of life that, at some point, this will happen. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), about five out of six children will experience at least one ear infection by age three. So, what are the signs that your child is dealing with an ear infection, and does this mean you need to turn to our Clarksburg and Montgomery Village, MD, pediatricians right away for treatment?

What are the warning signs of an ear infection?

While children who are old enough to talk will often be able to verbalize that their ear hurts, it can be more challenging for younger children who aren’t able to let you know that they are experiencing issues. This is when you have to keep your eyes peeled for these warning signs of an ear infection,

• Tugging or pulling at the ear
• Increased irritability or fussiness
• Pus or ear drainage/discharge
• Sleepiness or restlessness
• Difficulty hearing those around them
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea or vomiting

If your child seems to cry or fuss more than usual or clings to your side, this could be a sign that something isn’t right. If your child gets particularly fussy or throws a tantrum whenever you lay them down to sleep, this could also be a sign. If your child develops a fever along with these symptoms, it’s time to call our Clarksburg and Montgomery Village, MD, pediatricians for an evaluation.

How will a pediatrician treat my child’s ear infection?

How we treat your child’s ear infection will depend on their age. If your baby has an ear infection and is under six months old, they will need antibiotics. After six months to two years old, we may monitor their symptoms and see if the infection goes away on its own. Of course, if symptoms are severe, antibiotics will also be prescribed.

If your child is over two years old, we may follow a “wait and see” approach. Mild ear infections can clear up on their own. If symptoms don’t go away after two or three days, or if symptoms get worse, it may be time to prescribe antibiotics.

If you think your child might be dealing with an ear infection, but you aren’t sure, then turn to our Clarksburg and Montgomery Village, MD, pediatricians. Call Clarksburg Pediatrics at (301) 528-8181.