Ear Infections

There are different kinds of ear infections. Cold Viruses are the most common cause of ear infections but allergies and exposure to second-hand smoke can also promote these infections.

As many as 80% of ear infections will clear up on their own.
Resistance to antibiotics occurs most often in children who take antibiotics for repeated ear infections.
Swelling in the air passage behind the eardrum can cause fluid to become trapped.
Bacteria may then start to grow in the trapped fluid. Signs of bacterial infection include worsening pain, fever, dizziness and ringing in the ears.
Your health care provider may treat this kind of infection with an antibiotic.

What you can do:

Press a warm wash cloth or heating pad set on low against the sore ear.
Rest and let your body fight the infection.
Drink more water.
Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) to relieve pain . Read the label for a child's dose.
Decongestants may help to relieve a congested nose. Avoid antihistamines.
If your nose is red and sore, dab on some petroleum jelly or salve, or use tissues with lotion.

Call your doctor or nurse if:

you have a fever of higher than 39 degrees Celsius or 102 degrees Fahrenheit;
you have trouble breathing;
after several days, you start feeling worse instead of better; or
you think there is something seriously wrong with your baby.