How is mastoiditis diagnosed?
Specific treatment for mastoiditis will be determined by your child’s physician based on: • your child’s age, overall health and medical history • extent of the disease • your child’s tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies • expectations for the course of the condition • your opinion or preference Treatment of mastoiditis usually requires hospitalization and a complete evaluation by a physician that specializes in the ear, nose, and throat disorders (otolaryngologist). Your child, in most cases, will receive antibiotics through an intravenous (IV) catheter. Surgery is sometimes needed to help drain the fluid from the middle ear. Your child’s physician may suggest a myringotomy, a surgical procedure which involves making a small opening in the eardrum to drain the fluid and relieve the pressure from the middle ear. A small tube may be placed in the opening of the eardrum to ventilate the middle ear and to prevent fluid from accumulating. The child’s hearing is rest
