Preparing questions in advance can help patients and parents have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their or their child’s treatment options. The following questions related to ear-related conditions in children may be helpful:

1. How can I tell if my child has an ear infection?
   
   
2. How can I tell if my child’s cold or flu has progressed into an ear infection?
   
   
3. At what point should I bring my child in to see you when I think he/she has an ear infection?
   
   
4. I think my child may have stuck something in his/her ear. Is it safe to try to remove it at home?
   
   
5. What are the benefits and risks of using antibiotics to treat my child’s ear infection?
   
   
6. Should I use over-the-counter pain relievers to relieve the pain of an ear infection in my child?
   
   
7. Are there any other medications (prescription or over-the-counter) you recommend for my child’s ear infection? What are their side effects? What medications should I avoid?
   
   
8. How long will the fluid remain in my child’s ear after a middle ear infection? How can I tell when it’s gone?
   
   
9. What changes in my child’s condition should I report to you?
   
   
10. Is my child a candidate for ear drainage tubes?
    
    
11. After my child’s ear infection has cleared, should his/her hearing be tested?
    
    
12. Is there anything I can do to prevent my child from getting an ear infection?
    
    
13. Should my child wear earplugs while swimming? Will this prevent swimmer’s ear?
    
    
14. Are there any immunizations my child can receive that might help prevent ear infections?
    
    
15. Is it safe to pierce my child’s ears? What can I do to minimize the risk of infection after the ears are pierced?