The goal of treatment is cure of the infection.
Nasal sprays, nose drops, oral decongestants or, occasionally, oral antihistamines may be used to promote drainage of fluid through the eustachian tube.
Ear drops may be prescribed to relieve pain. Over-the-counter antipyretic and analgesic medications (such as acetaminophen - oral) may be used to reduce fever and discomfort. Aspirin should not be given to children during a viral upper respiratory infection because this has been linked with Reye's syndrome.
Antibiotics may be prescribed if infection is present and the infection appears bacterial rather than viral. Oral corticosteroids may occasionally be prescribed to reduce inflammation. Applying warmth to the ears (using warm cloths or warm water bottles, for example) may relieve pain.
Keep the ears clean and dry to reduce the risk of reinfection.
Myringotomy (surgical cutting of the eardrum) may occasionally be needed to relieve pressure and allow drainage. This may or may not also involve placement of drainage tubes in the ear. Surgery to remove the adenoids may prevent them from blocking the eustachian tubes.
|