A 2-year-old child presents with symptoms of a common cold and has been unusually irritable and pulling at her ears. On examination, the tympanic membrane appears red and bulging without mobility. What is the potential diagnosis and appropriate treatment?
These symptoms suggest acute otitis media, an infection of the middle ear often preceded by an upper respiratory tract infection, especially in children. The first line of treatment usually involves pain management with analgesics. Antibiotics like amoxicillin may be prescribed depending on the severity and duration of symptoms.