What do you treat a ear infection with?

Treat ear infection: Depending on if this is an external ear infection or middle ear infection, or if there is active drainage from the year, a topical antibiotic or anti-fungal ear drop with or without the addition of an oral antibiotic may be needed. I recommend you see your doctor or otolaryngologist (ENT) for examination, diagnosis and treatment.

Ear Infection: Ear infections are generally due to viral upper respiratory infections or allergy flare ups. Sometimes, a few days after the onset of symptoms, a secondary bacterial infection develops, much more commonly in young children. Go see your primary care doctor. You only need to see an ear, nose and throat surgeon if you don't get better with treatment.

Antibiotics or no tx: There are different types of ear infections. External ear infections (infection of the skin of the ear canal) are treated with antibiotic drops. Middle ear infections may resolve on their own, or may require antibiotic therapy if the patient is moderately ill with the infection.

Antibiotics: An "ear infection" could be an outer ear infection (swimmer's ear) or a middle ear infection. Three treatment options 1) do nothing...And suffer - why? 2) antibiotics and/or ear drops 3) tubes ( for middle ear infection).

Correct diagnosis: Treatment comes after diagnosis and also involves the age of the patient. Children with a red bulging ear drum usually require an appropriate antibiotic. Adults following a cold usually have a viral infection leading to fluid in the middle ear which does not require an antibiotic. Many middle ear infections resolve spontaneously (80%). Finally, external otitis is another type of ear infection.

Depends: There are many types of ear infection requiring different strategies. The main symptom is pain and therefore painkillers are usually given. Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil are the usual ones used. If it is an external ear infection ( of the ear canal) then usually antibiotic ear drops in addition suffices. In middle ear infections oral antibiotics may be required. Best judge is the examining physician.