(HealthDay News) -- Ear infections can cause big pain in little ears. But you and your child's doctor can take steps to help ease the pain and discomfort.

The American Academy of Family Physicians suggests how to ease earache pain:

• If antibiotics are prescribed for a bacterial infection, follow the pediatrician's directions carefully.
• After consulting with the doctor, offer acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Never give your child aspirin, because it can cause a rare but life-threatening condition called Reye's syndrome in kids and teens.
• Place a warm (not hot) heating pad over the sore ear.
• Use any pain-relieving ear drops prescribed by your child's pediatrician.

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