If the medicine is a liquid, store the antibiotic in the refrigerator and use a measuring spoon to be sure that you give the right amount. Give the medicine until the bottle is empty or all the pills are gone. Even though your child will feel better in a few days, give the antibiotic until it is completely gone. Finishing the medicine will keep the ear infection from flaring up again. These medications usually control the pain within 1 to 2 hours.
Earaches tend to hurt more at bedtime.
To help ease the pain, you can put an ice bag or ice wrapped in a wet washcloth over the ear. This may decrease the swelling and pressure inside. Some physicians recommend a heating pad instead. Remove the cold or heat in 20 minutes to prevent frostbite or a burn. Restrictions Your child can go outside and does not need to cover the ears.