- Document type
- Clinical pathways
- Place
- South and West Hertfordshire
- Output type
- Clinical Pathways
- Pathway
- Paediatric Acute Otitis Media
Paediatric Acute Otitis Media
Pathway Publish Date: March 2024
Pathway Next Review Date: March 2026
Otitis media is an infection of the middle ear. It causes inflammation (redness and swelling) and a build-up of fluid behind the eardrum.
The main symptoms of a middle ear infection include:
- earache
- a high temperature (fever)
- being sick
- a lack of energy
- slight hearing loss – if the middle ear becomes filled with fluid
In some cases, a hole may develop in the eardrum (perforated eardrum) and pus may run out of the ear. The earache, which is caused by the build-up of fluid stretching the eardrum, then resolves.
Most ear infections get better on their own within 3 to 5 days and do not need any specific treatment.
Speak to a pharmacist if your child has signs of an ear infection and is aged 1 to 17 years. A pharmacist can give children the same treatments as a GP for an ear infection. They can also give advice or direct you to other medical help.
Many people with Acute Otitis Media will not need antibiotic treatment as symptoms usually resolve spontaneously within a few days. However, antibiotics are necessary in a number of situations, including for:
- People who are systemically very unwell.
- People who have symptoms and signs of a more serious illness or condition.
- People who have a high risk of complications.
Please see pathway attached for more information.