Ear Infections:
No Appointment Necessary

Aired on Superstation WGN
Saturday, July 23 and November 12, 2005

Show 219

Dr. Lisa Thornton:

Some ear infections can be serious, but many will clear up even without antibiotics. But they're still painful and nobody likes to see their child in pain. So here's some advice on how to treat ear pain.

Lachelle Wardell, PharmD:

Ear infections in children can be very painful. And while most are effectively treated with antibiotics, the pain that comes along with them may need special treatment. To help relieve your child's pain and discomfort, you may want to try one or more of the following. Ask your doctor about using one of the over the counter pain relievers. Be sure to use the correct dosage for your child's age and weight. An overdose can cause serious side effects. And under dosing may not get the desired pain relief. And never give aspirin to children under the age of 16 without your doctor's consent. It can cause Ryes Syndrome, a rare but lethal disease that affects the liver and brain. Another thing you can do to ease the pain is apply warmth to the ear by using a warm moist cloth. And you can ask your doctor about over the counter ear drops. They won't cure the infection, but they may help relieve the pain. For some children, the best treatment may be TLC and reassurance. And remember, if the pain doesn't get better after 24-hours on antibiotics, give your doctor a call.