Acute ear infection and earache
How do the symptoms manifest themselves?
Ear infections should always be treated by a specialist.
The symptoms of acute otitis media generally manifest themselves differently in newborns than in children, adolescents and adults. In newborns, you may notice pulling and frequent scratching of the ear. In addition, hearing difficulties, high irritability, frequent crying, fever, nausea and discharge from the ear often occur. This is different for children, adolescents and adults. Typical symptoms include earache, pressure on the ear, hearing loss, dizziness, nausea, discharge and fever. An untreated or late-treated middle ear infection can lead to serious and chronic damage.
An acute inflammation of the middle ear is also known as otitis media. The cause of the inflammation is usually an infection caused by bacteria. Rarely, the inflammation can also be caused by viruses. Then the inner ear may also be affected. A middle ear infection can occur in one or both ears. Acute otitis media is one of the most common diseases in children. Although middle ear infections usually occur in small children, adults can also be affected.
A middle ear infection can cause severe ear pain and hearing loss. In children in particular, hearing loss can lead to impaired learning ability and speech development. If a middle ear infection is recognized and treated quickly, hearing can be fully restored.
Causes of otitis media
Colds, allergies and infections can cause bacteria or viruses to block the Eustachian tube. This causes fluid to accumulate behind the eardrum (acute otitis media). As a result, the eardrum is impaired in its function, which can lead to hearing loss.
Sometimes fluid also leaks out of the middle ear and the fluid in the middle ear is broken down. However, the accumulation of fluid usually persists, leading to swelling of the inflamed Eustachian tube, called serous otitis media. The accumulation of fluid in the middle ear can become chronic and be present for years after the acute inflammation.
The examination and administration of medication
During the examination, your specialist will check both ears with an otoscope. Your eardrum will be examined for redness and irritation. If there is reddening of the eardrum, an inflammation of the middle ear is very likely. It may be necessary to perform an audiogram and a tympanogram.
Your specialist will prescribe appropriate medication. It is very important that you take your medication as prescribed and attend your follow-up examinations. Antibiotics help to relieve ear pain very quickly, but must be taken for the entire specified time.
Painkillers and antipyretics may be prescribed. Special ear drops can also alleviate earache. Contact your specialist if you have any questions about your child’s medication or if symptoms do not subside.
What other procedures may be necessary?
A surgical procedure called paracentesis may be considered. A small opening is cut into the eardrum so that accumulated fluid can drain away. The incision heals on its own within a few days and leaves virtually no scar tissue. It can even close so quickly that it is necessary to insert a tube so that the entire fluid accumulation can drain away.
The surgeon will select a tube for your child that best relieves the middle ear infection and normalizes the functions of the Eustachian tube. The tubes can remain in the eardrum for several weeks or months. During this time, the affected ear should be protected from water. This minimizes the risk of re-inflammation. The tubes also alleviate hearing difficulties.
Otitis media is not dangerous as long as it is treated early and appropriately. With the help of your doctor, you or your child will soon be able to hear better again. Follow the treatment suggested by your doctor.
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