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What can be done to prevent otitis media?
The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (Prevnar) and the flu vaccine can both reduce the risk of recurrent ear infections. Avoid exposure to second hand smoke at all times. Breast feeding exclusively until 6 months of age can be beneficial. Avoid bottle propping for all children. Older children should not use pacifiers. Older children can chew gum containing the sugar “xylitol”. Giving antibiotics to children with colds does not prevent ear infections. It only makes the ear infections harder to treat.
If your child is having problems with many ear infections (AOM) or prolonged OME with behavior or language problems, your doctor can refer you to an otolaryngologist, who is a specialist in the care of ear problems. The otolaryngologist might suggest putting tubes in the ear drum to let ear fluid come out.
Disclaimer: This document contains information and/or instructional materials developed by the University of Michigan Health System (UMHS) for the typical patient with your condition. It may include links to online content that was not created by UMHS and for which UMHS does not assume responsibility. It does not replace medical advice from your health care provider because your experience may differ from that of the typical patient. Talk to your health care provider if you have any questions about this document, your condition or your treatment plan.
• Acute Otitis Media (AOM) occurs when fluid builds up in the middle ear and is often caused by bacteria, but can also be caused by viruses.
How are ear infections caused and how can they be prevented?