Which statement about antihistamines and otitis media is accurate?

Which statement about antihistamines and otitis media is accurate?

• A. Antihistamines have not been shown to decrease the number of ear infections.
• B. Antihistamines decrease the number of ear infections.
• C. Antihistamines cure ear infections.
• D. Antihistamines worsen ear infections.

Answer: (A)

Antihistamines address allergy symptoms, not the middle-ear problems that cause ear infections. Otitis media happens mainly when the Eustachian tube malfunctions and secretions become infected or fluid accumulates. Antihistamines don’t improve drainage or reduce bacterial growth, so studies haven’t shown a decrease in the number of ear infections with their use. They’re not a treatment or preventive for acute otitis media or its recurrence; they may help with allergic symptoms but won’t lower infection risk. That’s why the statement that antihistamines have not been shown to decrease the number of ear infections is the best choice.

Antihistamines address allergy symptoms, not the middle-ear problems that cause ear infections. Otitis media happens mainly when the Eustachian tube malfunctions and secretions become infected or fluid accumulates. Antihistamines don’t improve drainage or reduce bacterial growth, so studies haven’t shown a decrease in the number of ear infections with their use. They’re not a treatment or preventive for acute otitis media or its recurrence; they may help with allergic symptoms but won’t lower infection risk. That’s why the statement that antihistamines have not been shown to decrease the number of ear infections is the best choice.