Q: My 33-month-old has had a fever and ear infection for 6 days despite antibiotic changes. Should we test for the flu?
- Myeongchan Kim
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD
Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD
This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Question:
My 33-month-old daughter is very sick. On day 1, she had a severe cold and an ear infection (otitis media) with a fever up to 39°C. On day 2, her antibiotics were changed, but the fever continued up to 38.7°C. By day 4, there was no improvement in the ear infection, so the antibiotics were changed again, but the fever persisted. On day 5, she had no fever during the day, but in the evening, she developed a severe runny nose and a cough. Today (day 6), the fever returned at dawn. We visited the clinic, and her throat is now swollen, while the ear infection remains unchanged. She still has a fever right now.
Should we go to the clinic tomorrow for a flu test? Should I continue giving the medicine prescribed yesterday? The ear infection isn't improving at all, and I don't know what to do.
Answer:
It is completely understandable that you are very worried about your child having a persistent fever and an ear infection lasting for 6 days.
To summarize the current situation: She has had an ear infection and her antibiotics have been changed twice without any significant improvement. She briefly had no fever on day 5, but it returned on the morning of day 6. In addition, she has developed new symptoms, including a heavy runny nose, a cough, and a swollen throat.
A follow-up visit to your doctor tomorrow morning is definitely necessary. However, you should seek immediate medical evaluation today if any of the following apply:
Her ear pain worsens, or there is discharge coming from the ear.
She is having difficulty breathing or is wheezing.
She hasn't urinated for over 8 hours and is refusing to drink fluids.
She is excessively lethargic, constantly wants to sleep, and has trouble making eye contact.
If these severe symptoms are not present, and she is still able to drink water and play briefly, you can continue giving her the medication prescribed yesterday through today, and then revisit the doctor tomorrow morning.
When you see the doctor tomorrow, it would be helpful to ask about the following:
Why is there no response to the antibiotics for the ear infection? (Ask about the possibility of antibiotic-resistant bacteria or if a dosage adjustment is needed).
Is a flu test necessary at this point, and would the results change her current treatment plan?
Could they recheck the condition of her eardrums and determine if a referral to an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist is necessary?
While you wait for her appointment, here is what you can do to keep her comfortable at home:
Fever management: If the fever makes her uncomfortable, double-check the dosage of her fever reducer based on her current weight (always check the mg/mL concentration on the label).
Hydration: Offer small amounts of fluids frequently, about every 2 to 3 hours.
Nasal congestion: Use normal saline drops followed by a nasal aspirator frequently to clear her runny nose.
Sleep: Try elevating her upper body slightly when she sleeps to help her breathe more comfortably.
Please make sure to consult your pediatrician tomorrow morning for a thorough reassessment of her condition.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
