[29F] Experiencing severe ear pain and high fever
Patient Description
A 29-year-old female reports severe ear pain that is exacerbated by touch, along with a high fever. She also describes a strong pulse in her neck, loss of appetite, and extreme fatigue. These symptoms have been present for approximately two days, with the strong pulse sensation developing over the last hour. The patient has no recent ear injuries, discharge, dizziness, balance problems, neck stiffness, hearing trouble, or rashes. She has no known pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses but is allergic to amoxicillin. She is not currently on any medications.
Show More
Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on the symptoms you've described for your son, the most likely cause could be:
- Acute Otitis Media: This is an infection of the middle ear, which is common in children. It can cause severe ear pain, fever, and sometimes a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear (which might explain the strong pulse you mentioned). Loss of appetite and fatigue are also common symptoms in children who are feeling unwell.
- Treatment typically involves antibiotics to clear the infection, and over-the-counter pain relievers to help with the ear pain and fever.
Please remember that while this is a likely explanation, other conditions could also cause these symptoms, and it's important to get a proper diagnosis from a healthcare provider.
What you can do
Here are some steps you can take to help your son feel better:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), can help reduce the ear pain and fever. Be sure to follow the dosing instructions on the package.
- Encourage your son to drink plenty of fluids. This can help prevent dehydration, especially if he has a fever.
- Try to keep your son comfortable and let him rest as much as possible.
What you should look out for
Please seek immediate medical attention if your son:
- Has a fever higher than 104°F (40°C)
- Seems unusually sleepy or difficult to wake up
- Has severe pain or swelling behind or around the ear
- Develops a stiff neck or sensitivity to light
- Has difficulty hearing or experiences sudden hearing loss
Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may need different management. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment.
Show More
1
Hugs
0
Comments
Save
11 mo ago