Acute Otitis Media: Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis

• In nearly all cases, a careful history and physical examination makes the diagnosis. The symptoms noted above will suggest to the doctor that otitis media is likely.
  
• The doctor will then look into the ear using a specialized microscope, called an otoscope. In patients with otitis media, the doctor will see redness and cloudiness of the ear drum (the tympanic membrane). Fluid may also appear in the ear. Rarely, a culture of the fluid is necessary to check for infection. This is usually only considered in cases of recurrent ear infections or severe disease.

Treatment

• Otitis media is treated with antibiotics, usually amoxicillin.
• For pain relief, nonsteroidal anti–inflammatory drugs, acetaminophen, or ear drops can be used.
• In cases of recurrent ear infections, daily antibiotics and/or surgery may be necessary.