Final answer:
The primary treatment for unresponsive, recurrent episodes of otitis media is antibiotics, with surgery as a secondary option if antibiotics fail. Vaccinations against pneumococcal diseases and influenza can also decrease the risk of AOM. Drug resistance should be considered when choosing an antibiotic regimen.
Step-by-step explanation:
A treatment for unresponsive, recurrent episodes of otitis media is primarily through the use of antibiotics. Acute Otitis Media (AOM) is a common infection of the middle ear, typically found in children. Diagnosis of AOM is made based on clinical signs and symptoms, with a high-dose of amoxicillin often being the first-line drug for treatment. However, due to antibiotic resistance, other drugs such as macrolides and cephalosporins might be used.
If standard antibiotic therapies prove unresponsive, the physician may consider surgery, specifically the placement of tympanostomy tubes in the eardrum to help fluid drain from the middle ear. While some parents may feel inclined to give their children antibiotics even if not necessary, it's important to adhere to medical advice to prevent unnecessary antibiotic use.
It is worth noting that the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) and influenza vaccine can decrease the incidence and subsequent risk of AOM. Nonetheless, in instances where treatments do not respond to typical antibiotics, like with Pseudomonas spp., polymyxin B, gentamicin, or some fluoroquinolones may be necessary.