Ear infection, also known as otitis media, is a medical condition that develops when infected fluids are trapped inside the ear drum, resulting in a painful inflammation of the inner ear.
Middle-ear infections are most common in children, but they can also happen in adults. Some ear infections go away on their own within one to two weeks without treatment.
What Causes Ear Infections?
Ear infections are often caused by bacteria or viruses. These germs often come from other illnesses that cause swelling and congestion in your nasal passages and throat.
A cold or allergy can irritate the ear canal and cause the area around it to swell. This can keep fluid from draining from the middle ear.
- Smoking or Secondhand smoke
- Allergies
- Colds
- Upper respiratory infections
Ear infection symptoms:
- Ear pain
- Drainage of fluid from the ear
- Fever
- Trouble hearing
- Difficulty sleeping
3 Types of Ear Infection
Acute otitis media
The infection occurs suddenly, causing swelling and redness. Fluid and mucus become trapped inside the ear, causing the person to have a fever and ear pain.
Otitis media with effusion
After the initial infection subsides, the middle ear continues to accumulate fluid and mucus. There is a feeling of fullness in the ear that may show no signs or symptoms but can affect the hearing.
Chronic otitis media with effusion
This occurs when the fluid remains in the middle ear for an extended period or returns repeatedly. It may also occur because of some dysfunction or noninfectious blockage of your inner ear.
Doctors often prescribe antibiotics for ear infection. The antibiotic should always be taken as directed. Failure to do so can lead to recurring infections and antibiotic resistance.
It isn’t always necessary to treat an ear infection. Some ear infections go away on their own within one to two weeks without treatment.
However, it is essential that you take precautions in preventing the spread from one person to another. This can be done by not sharing items that may transmit viruses or bacteria such as earphones or hats.
If your ear condition is deteriorating, it’s best to consult with an ENT doctor before taking measures. You can visit Hearing Solutions, the home of the best ENT doctors in Cebu.
Hearing Solutions is located in Century Plaza Complex, Juana Osmeña St, Cebu City. You can also visit us at our Consolacion branch located at CPG Arcade, North Road, Consolacion. We are available for consultation Monday – Saturday from 9 am – 6 pm.
To schedule an appointment, call us at 0932 788 1168 or message us on Facebook.
Sources:
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/otitis-media
