Ear Infection (17 month old toddler)

Hi, my boy had a fever and recovered from it, but is still having runny nose from a cold.

Today he's been poking his ear telling me that his ear was aching. He didn't sleep well last night, but I didn't know what was wrong since he never slept well from the time he was born.

He is normally a happy child with very mild/easy to please personality though he can be very attached and clingy. But all of a sudden in the morning, he threw something like a temper tantrum and I still didn't know what was wrong. Later in the day, he did that again. At first I thought he was having separation anxiety, but he didn't want to be held at all.

I used Hyland's eardrop on him, then he became playful again but for only a short time. Then I took him to the doctors who prescribed antibiotics, and no way I want to give that to my child.

His first molars are piercing through as well (the doctor said). Teething had been tough on him. As soon as I gave him some teething tablets, he was able to eat up his dinner.

I would like to know what I can use for his ear infection. The doctor said it's just a slight ear infect and if it doesn't clear up by Saturday, I can pick up the antibiotics. I really think it can do more harm.

Please help...