Originally published June 16 2005
Letting ear infections heal without antibiotics can be beneficial, researchers say
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
An ABC News article said researchers at the University of Texas found that in two-thirds of childhood ear infection cases, the infection cleared up on its own without antibiotics, which can be beneficial in preventing the subsequent rise in antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Ear infections are a common complaint of young children, and most have had at least one by the time they are three years old.
Parents generally act quickly on ear pain, taking their child to the pediatrician for an antibiotic prescription.
The latest evidence comes from study published today in Pediatrics, which showed that about two-thirds of childhood ear infections resolved without the use of antibiotics.
Learning what is going on inside your child's ear is important for understanding why skipping the antibiotics may keep your child healthier.
Ear Infections Exposed An ear infection most often occurs when a child has a cold, throat infection or allergy.
These conditions may cause the Eustachian tube, a canal that drains fluid from the middle ear to the back of the throat, to become clogged.
This fluid may become infected by bacteria or a virus, causing pain and swelling of the eardrum.
Making matters worse, children in day care or school are frequently exposed to bacteria and viruses and have not yet built up any immunity to these bugs.
Antibiotics vs. Waiting The pediatrician will examine the inside of your child's ear.
Antibiotics are probably necessary if the pain is severe, if the infection doesn't subside with watchful waiting or if a fever develops.
If your child's condition does not improve after three days following the administration of an antibiotic, call your doctor.
All children will develop an ear infection at some point, and antibiotics will almost always prove to be a successful treatment option.
However, if your child has a mild ear infection, you may want to discuss the possibility of holding off on antibiotics and allowing your child's body to fight off the infection.
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