Reasons To Skip Antibiotics For Ear Infections

As a mother of a little girl, I know that when it comes to your child and pain or illness, there is an overwhelming urge to “do something” to relieve their suffering. As ear infections become more and more pervasive among children, so does the concern over antibiotic resistance. Here are 5 reasons NOT to use antibiotics when your child gets an ear infection.

1. They Rarely Work.

Since as early as 2004, medical organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, have recommended holding off on antibiotics with standard ear infections, since research has indicated that antibiotics are no more effective at treating them, or offering pain relief than a placebo.

2. They Contribute to Global Antibiotic Resistance.

Every time an antibiotic is used, its effectiveness is reduced a little bit, due to ever-evolving bacteria, who grow resistant. Many researchers are concerned that antibiotic resistance is becoming a ‘global pandemic’, and the World Health Organization warns that antibiotic resistance is the “health catastrophe of tomorrow”, that will put at risk common treatments such as chemotherapy, organ transplants and even common surgery.

3. Antibiotics Are Ruthless Killers.

Antibiotics kill everything in the gut and intestinal tract. Since the heart of the immune system is in the gut, they can weaken the immune system by killing off beneficial bacteria and increase the likelihood of an overgrowth of antibiotic resistant bacteria, normally kept in check by the good bacteria.

4. They Can Cause Severe Reaction.

While many can use antibiotics without a problem, others are not so lucky. Many children are allergic to even the mild antibiotic, penicillin and stronger antibiotics have been known to cause severe allergic reactions and nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

5. There Are Other Treatments That Work.

Herbs such as mullein and garlic have been used for decades to treat ear infections. Mullein relieves congestion and inflammation. Garlic is an effective antibacterial and antiviral herb and ear drops made with these ingredients can be found in natural foods stores including Whole Foods. Chiropractic care and homeopathic remedies are also options.

While antibiotics may sometimes be necessary for severe infections, it is wise to be very skeptical of using them for most ear infections. If you do take your child to the doctor for an ear infection, don’t request antibiotics. If your doctor suggests them, talk about your concerns. Ask his or her opinion about antibiotic resistance, and about the recommendations by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Unfortunately many doctors are just “old school.” Antibiotics used to be the treatment du jour for ear infections. If your doctor is frequently pushing antibiotics, consider switching to different healthcare provier, or getting a second opinion.

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