In the past, if the doctor even slightly suspected an ear infection, an antibiotic would be prescribed for the child. However, because of overuse of antibiotics, new germs are emerging which are resistant to many antibiotics and, therefore, physicians are being more careful with the use of antibiotics. Now, most doctors will only treat symptoms and signs of an ear infection if they are absolutely sure an infection exists. If there is any question about whether an ear infection exists, the doctor may prescribe a pain medication and watch for a couple of days re-examining the child if concerns persist or increase. If an antibiotic is prescribed, you must give the child the antibiotic exactly according to directions.
Most ear infections resolve on their own or with the prescribed antibiotic.
Most ear infections, therefore, do not need to be re-checked. However, if a few days into the infection the child seems no better or the child seems to get better and then to have new symptoms suggesting an ear infection, the child should be re-checked. Also, sometimes the doctor will have you come back for a re-check depending on what the doctor sees in your child's ear. You should always ask the doctor if your child needs to be re-checked with each ear infection and follow his or her advise. My child has had lots of ear infections.