Do Antibiotics Help In Treating Ear Infection?

Posted on Wed, 17 Feb 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 17 Feb 2016 Answered on

Tue, 19 Apr 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hey dr,

I was recently prescribed antibiotics for an ear infection after vistig on the third day with the infection but I was told to wait until the 4th day before taking them to see if it would improve. I have just woken up and the pain is definitely there still, but it feels better to some degree than it did yesterday with there being less pain while swallowing. Previously it had being getting worse every day but now its gotten slightly better. Would it be worth holding off longer to see if it will heal without the use of antibiotics?

Regards,
XXXX

Answered by Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Wait and see

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for asking
I read your question and i understand your concern. If the pain is subsiding and there is no fever i suppose you can wait for antibiotics use and let it heal on its own. If the symptoms are not improving or you develop fever then antibiotics should be used. Meanwhile keep a temperature record and see if it helps.
I hope it helps. Take good care of yourself and dont forget to close the discussion please.
Regards XXXXXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar