Ear Infections in Children
Otitis media (middle ear infection) is one of the most common reasons children visit a doctor, especially in the age group 6 months to 2 years. At Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi, our paediatric team provides accurate diagnosis and treatment of ear infections.
Types
- Acute Otitis Media (AOM): Bacterial or viral infection of the middle ear. Sudden onset pain, fever, irritability.
- Otitis Media with Effusion (OME/”Glue Ear”): Fluid in the middle ear without acute infection. Causes hearing loss without much pain.
- Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM): Persistent discharge through perforated eardrum.
Symptoms of AOM
- Ear pain (tugging or pulling at ear in infants)
- Fever
- Difficulty sleeping, increased crying
- Reduced appetite
- Sometimes ear discharge (if eardrum perforates – actually relieves pain)
Diagnosis
Otoscopy shows red, bulging, immobile tympanic membrane. Tympanometry for effusion.
Treatment
Watchful Waiting (Most AOM)
Most AOM in children >2 years resolves without antibiotics. Analgesia (paracetamol/ibuprofen) for pain. Review in 48–72 hours.
Antibiotics
Indicated for: children under 2 years, severe symptoms, bilateral AOM, otorrhoea. Amoxicillin first choice (10 days).
Recurrent AOM – Grommets
If ≥4 episodes in 12 months or persistent OME with hearing loss, surgical insertion of ventilation tubes (grommets) is considered.
Expert paediatric ENT care at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi: 011-41670042
