$Unique_ID{BRK01009}
$Pretitle{Nervous System and Sense Organs, Digestive System}
$Title{Can a Middle Ear Infection Cause Vomiting and Diarrhea?}
$Subject{otitis media child treatment}
$Volume{F-21, I-21}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Can a Middle Ear Infection Cause Vomiting and Diarrhea?


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  Can you help us make some sense out of problem diagnosed as a
middle ear infection?  We have had a terrible time with our baby boy (age 2)
and the doctor feels that this ear infection is causing all of his problems
including vomiting and diarrhea.  Is this possible?  What should we do?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  This is certainly the season for Otitis Media (the medical name for
the condition) to rear its head, as it is most frequently seen during the
winter months and early spring.  It is more common in younger children under
the age of 6 and boys seem to suffer from it more frequently than girls.  As
you have probably been told, it is a bacterial infection located in the middle
ear, and usually is seen a few days after the beginning of a common cold or
other upper respiratory infection.  It is not a pleasant situation for your
youngster, who will display all the signs of pain in the ear, crying and even
screaming, certainly increased irritability, fever and disturbed sleep.  Yes,
acute otitis media may even provoke vomiting and diarrhea.  And it is not a
diagnosis that should be treated lightly, as serious complications including
hearing difficulties and language and speech development problems, may occur
if proper therapy and follow-up is not carried out.  The first line of defense
will be the use of antibiotics, which usually are quite effective.  In the
event that the first prescription fails to obtain the desired results, a
change may be made, as there are many antibiotics that may be used in these
cases.  Your baby should be seen regularly following the conquest of the
present acute situation, to prevent possible recurrence.
ÿ
----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
