EARACHE

The ears must be examined by a doctor before proper treatment can be provided.

• If the pain has been present for less than 2 weeks, then the patient should be seen within 24 hours.
• If the pain has been present for more than 2 weeks and is not presently severe and there is no vomiting, then the patient can be seen at the next available routine appointment.

ACTIVITIES:  Keep water out of the ears.  Placing a heating pad to the painful ear may be helpful, but do not use while sleeping.  Use a vaporizer (humidifier) if the nose is stuffy.

MEDICATIONS:  You may take Tylenol or Motrin to ease the pain. (The patient may take Aspirin only if over 18 years of age.) Take no more than the recommended dosage. You may take a decongestant if your nose is stuffy.

DIET:  You should drink plenty of water.  You may eat anything you desire.

CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR FOR ANY OF THE FOLLOWING:

1. The pain becomes unbearable.
2. Your temperature is over 103 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. You have onset of stiff neck, visual disturbances, severe weakness, severe dizziness, or vomiting.

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This page was last updated on 19 August 1999.