Are Antibiotics the Only Treatment for Ear Infections?

I have seen time and again that ear infections do not always require antibiotics. The integrative approach is extremely effective, especially when breaking the cycle of recurrent ear infections.

Many ear infections heal on their own

Upwards of 65% of ear infections will heal on their own, without the aid of an antibiotic.  It is safe to watch and wait in certain scenarios depending on the age of the child, their overall health status, the structure of their ear anatomy, and their past medical history.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) calls this the “watch-and-wait approach.” Here is a link to the full AAP guidelines.

Ear infection case study from my practice

One of my sweet little patients was in for a visit recently. I have been seeing him for an integrative approach to behavior challenges, anxiety, meltdowns, and eczema. Together with his mom, we explore his story in the video below:

Dr. Kilbane, her patient Levi, and his mother talk about the progress he has made on the Healthy Kids, Happy Moms program

At this particular visit, he also happened to have an ear infection but was not experiencing any ear pain or other symptoms.

Since he was generally healthy and not an infant, I felt it was safe to watch his ear infection to see if it would go away on its own. We continued to do all of the good integrative things we had already implemented, including his food and supplements.

He came back five days later so I could re-check his ear, and his eardrum looked perfect.

It resolved without the use of antibiotics and the rest of his issues are improving significantly with the integrative approach. My online course and Healthy Kids, Happy Moms book will help you understand the integrative approach to cellular health. My supplement guide explains which supplements are most helpful and how to begin using them with a child.  

Share

Recent Posts

Healthy Summer Treats

Easy Homemade Healthy Summer Treats Your Family Will Love

It's the 4th of July, it’s hot, and nothing hits the spot quite like a cold, healthy summer treat after a long day in the sun! If you take a stroll down...
Read More
Kid with Sunscreen in the Pool - Common Sunscreen Myths

Common Sunscreen Myths: What You Need to Know

There's a number of common sunscreen myths these days. This mixed information can make it confusing to know what separates fact from fiction. Let’s see if we can clear up...
Read More
School-aged girl in swimming cap and goggles in pool

Swimmer’s Ear: How to Prevent and Treat It

Swimmer’s ear (medical term otitis externa) is very different from the run-of-the-mill ear infection (otitis media). Swimmer’s ear is an infection along the ear canal, caused by the ear canal remaining moist for...
Read More

What If You Could Break Your Child's Sick Cycle?

Discover 7 Steps to Heal and
Prevent Common Childhood Illnesses

Online Course

The Healthy Kids, Happy Moms Companion Course is a physician-led, parent-centered, time-tested online course that includes assessments, workbooks, recipes, and illness-specific recommendations.

Become a Patient

 Dr. Kilbane’s private practice, Infinite Health, is based in Charlotte, North Carolina. She is currently accepting new patients

What If You Could Break Your Child's Sick Cycle?

Discover 7 Steps to Heal and
Prevent Common Childhood Illnesses

Online Course

The Healthy Kids, Happy Moms Companion Course is a physician-led, parent-centered, time-tested online course that includes assessments, workbooks, recipes, and illness-specific recommendations.

Become a Patient

 Dr. Kilbane’s private practice, Infinite Health, is based in Charlotte, North Carolina. She is currently accepting new patients

Join the Practitioner Training Wait List!

Privacy Policy: We hate spam and promise to keep your email address safe.

What You Get With The Eczema Jump Start Guide:

Dr. Kilbane’s approach is universal and can be used by both children and adults who have eczema. Here’s what’s included: