otitis media

A middle ear infection, very common in babies and young children because their eustachian tubes (the tubes from the ear to the throat) are short and flat and drain poorly. It often follows a cold. Fluid and pus collect behind the eardrum. Many cases get better on their own; some need antibiotics, and children with frequent infections may get small tubes placed in the eardrums.

Teach parents to finish the full course of any antibiotic, to give pain relief as ordered, and not to put a baby to bed with a bottle. Breastfeeding, vaccines and a smoke-free home lower the risk.