How is otitis media treated?

Generally, treatment methods for otitis media include general management, medication, surgery, physical therapy, and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The specifics are as follows:

1. General Management

Patients should keep the ear canal clean and dry, avoiding contaminated water entering the ear during bathing or hair washing. When blowing the nose, press one nostril closed and gently blow to prevent nasal secretions from being forced into the middle ear—avoid blowing both sides simultaneously. Adequate rest is important; avoid excessive fatigue. A light, nutritious diet helps strengthen immunity and supports recovery from inflammation.

2. Medication

Drug therapy is a core approach in treating otitis media and must be used under medical supervision. For infection control, antibiotics such as cefaclor sustained-release tablets or amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium granules may be prescribed. Pain relief can be achieved with acetaminophen tablets or ibuprofen suspension. In cases of excessive ear discharge, hydrogen peroxide solution can be used to clean the ear canal, followed by administration of ofloxacin ear drops.

3. Surgical Treatment

Surgery should be considered when drug treatment proves ineffective or complications such as tympanic membrane perforation or persistent middle ear effusion occur. Common procedures include tympanoplasty and ossiculoplasty. These surgeries aim to repair damage to the eardrum, remove infected tissue from the middle ear, restore ventilation and drainage functions, and promote healing.

4. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can help alleviate symptoms. Commonly used techniques include ultrashort wave therapy and infrared irradiation. These treatments improve local blood circulation in the middle ear, reduce inflammatory swelling, accelerate absorption of inflammatory secretions, and relieve discomfort such as ear pain and ear fullness.

5. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

According to TCM, otitis media is often associated with damp-heat in the liver and gallbladder or invasion by wind-heat. Treatment focuses on clearing heat, removing dampness, dispelling wind, and detoxifying. Herbal formulas such as Long Dan Xie Gan Wan (Gentiana Liver-Clearing Pills) or Huang Lian Shang Qing Pian (Coptis Upper-Resolving Tablets) may be used. Acupuncture can also be combined to regulate bodily functions by stimulating specific points, helping to reduce inflammatory responses.

In addition, patients must strictly follow medical advice and undergo regular follow-up visits during treatment. Daily precautions include staying warm and preventing colds to reduce the risk of recurrent otitis media. Immediate medical attention is necessary if symptoms such as worsening ear pain, fever, or sudden hearing loss occur.