When does my baby need antibiotics?
In the past, antibiotics were often used directly as standard for middle ear infections. In addition to the knowledge about antibiotic resistance in “overuse”, it has been observed that the harmless inflammation often heals by itself within a few days. For this reason, the direct administration of antibiotics is avoided nowadays.
It is important to observe the course of the disease. It is often sufficient to give fever-reducing and pain-relieving medication. In most cases, the earache disappears within one day. However, if the symptoms persist or even worsen, the doctor should prescribe an antibiotic.
What medications are available?
Painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen are recommended for an initially purely symptomatic and systematic therapy.If this does not improve within the next one to two days, the doctor should prescribe antibiotics. Here active substances such as Ampicillin or Amoxicillin usually promise a good effectiveness, since they are directed exactly against the bacteria causing the inflammation. Nose drops also help, as they reduce the swelling of the mucous membranes in the nasopharynx and improve ventilation.
Are there any household remedies?
The onion sac is a well-tried household remedy against middle ear inflammation in small children. Onions have an antibacterial effect, just like garlic or chamomile, which can be used in the same way. The finely chopped and grated onions are wrapped in a cloth (for example handkerchiefs or linen cloths) and must be fastened to the head with a headband, scarf or similar.
Since the children usually lie on their sick side and also sleep on it, the head can be placed on the bag while sleeping. When the child sleeps, the position of the bag should be checked regularly. It is especially effective if the bag is warmed up additionally.
An alternative is the potato bag. Boil the potatoes, mash them and wrap them in a cloth. The resulting warmth is perceived as pleasant by the child.
To fight the fever with household remedies, damp calf compresses are suitable. The wipes should only be a little colder than body temperature and not too cold. After dipping the towels in the water, they should be wrung out and then wrapped around the lower legs.
Once the towels are warm again, they must be changed. This procedure can be repeated several times a day. This usually lowers the body temperature effectively.
However, you should continue to control your fever. The above mentioned methods can help, but in no case replace a visit to the doctor. If the child develops symptoms of middle ear inflammation, parents should always consult a doctor so that the disease does not worsen, does not become chronic and bad late effects such as deafness can be prevented.
