Bacteriological ear infections may need antibiotic treatment. It is not possible, however, to determine what the cause of an ear infection is simply by looking at the ear. It is often more prudent, however, to wait before starting this course of treatment. Most children under the age of two have had at least one ear infection. Children in daycare centers have a greater incidence of ear infection than those who are at home with a parent.
Boys have a greater number of ear infections than girls.
Formula fed babies have far more ear infections than breastfed babies. Allergies, especially dairy intolerance, often exacerbate ear infections. If repeat ear infections are a problem, it may be worth exploring a child's diet and environment to look for allergens. If no other treatments prove effective, chronic ear infections may require the placement of ear tubes to help drain ear fluid and keep the ear canals open. No drops of any sort should be applied, however, if there is any chance that the ear drum has burst.