antibiotics for ear infections
Earache is a common symptom of ear infection. However, not all earaches are caused by an ear infection. If a child has earache but is otherwise well, an ear infection is unlikely. Mild earache is often due to a build-up of mucus in the middle ear after a cold. Ear infections are usually divided into those which occur in the ear canal (otitis externa) and those which occur in the small space behind the eardrum (the middle ear). You may hear an infection of the middle ear referred to as 'acute otitis media'. This leaflet deals with infections of the middle ear. The medical term for an ear infection is otitis. Ear infections generally begin as inflammation of the skin inside the outer ear canal (the tube-shaped part of the ear visible under the ear flap). Once inflammation is present, discharge, redness, and other characteristics of an ear infection become established. The American Academy of Pediatrics has revised its guidelines on antibiotics for treating acute otitis media, the middle-ear infection that is one of the most common illnesses in U.S. children. Story Highlights. Updated guidelines focus on treating uncomplicated middle-ear infections in kids. Antibiotics for Ear infection. Middle ear infections (otitis media) are one of the most common children's illnesses, affecting almost all children at some point. The type of ear infection that is usually painful and may require antibiotic is Acute otitis media. Otitis media with effusion (OME) is a buildup of fluid in the middle ear without signs and symptoms of acute infection (otalgia, pus, and fever). Otitis media with effusion is more common than Acute otitis media. According to the guidelines, children need immediate antibiotics if they have a severe ear infection (defined as either a fever of 102.2 degrees or higher or significant pain); a ruptured ear drum with drainage; or an infection in both ears for kids 2 or younger. Amoxicillin dosage according to the prescribing information10: 1  Children: For mild or moderate ear infections, the usual dose is 25 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight, divided into two daily doses and taken every 12 hours; or 20 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight, divided into three daily doses and taken every 8 hours. Ear infections in dogs and cats are most often the result of an underlying problem. Many conditions can predispose a pet to developing an ear infection, including the following: Allergies (food allergy or inhalant allergy) Ear mites. Polyps or other growths in the ear canal. Antibiotics for Ear Infections. Doctors often prescribe antibiotics to treat ear infections. Most antibiotics for ear infections fall under four families: penicillins, cephalosporins, sulfonamides, and erythromycins. Amoxicillin is the most common antibiotic used to treat ear infections. When using antibiotics for ear infections, remember to take each dose on schedule. Infections of the inner ear are less common and are usually caused by viruses. Occasionally, otitis media may spread to involve the inner ear. Dizziness, loss of balance, and affected hearing can indicate inner ear problems. Antibiotics indicated for the treatment of Acute otitis media2-3.
Amoxicillin