Overview
An ear infection, also known as acute otitis media, occurs when the middle ear becomes infected. This air-filled space lies behind the eardrum and contains the tiny vibrating bones of the ear.
Types of Ear infection
1. Acute Otitis Media (AOM): The most common type, characterized by sudden onset and rapid progression of symptoms.
2. Chronic Otitis Media: Persistent inflammation and infection lasting for weeks or months.
3. Recurrent Otitis Media: Frequent episodes of AOM within a short period.
Causes of Ear infection
- Bacterial or viral infection due to congestion and swelling of the nasal passages, throat, and eustachian tubes.
- Often associated with colds, flu, or allergies.
Risk Factors of Ear infection
- Age: Children are more prone.
- Seasonal Factors: More common during fall and winter.
- Exposure to Smoke or Allergens: Increases risk.
Symptoms of Ear infection
1. Children: Ear pain (especially when lying down).
Tugging or pulling at the ear.
Trouble sleeping, fussiness.
Hearing difficulties.
Fever, drainage from the ear.
2. Digestive Symptoms (Adults): Ear pain.
Fluid drainage from the ear.
Hearing problems.
Preventions of Ear infection
- Vaccination: Pneumococcal and influenza vaccines.
- Avoid Secondhand Smoke: Reduces risk.
- Breastfeeding: Provides immunity.
Diagnosis of Ear infection
- Clinical examination by a healthcare provider.
- Assessment of symptoms, eardrum appearance, and hearing tests.
Treatment for Ear infection
- Pain Management: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
- Antibiotics: If bacterial infection is confirmed.
- Ear Tubes (Tympanostomy Tubes): For recurrent cases.
- Observation: Some infections resolve without treatment.
When to seek medical attention ?
- Persistent symptoms.
- Severe ear pain.
- Discharge from the ear.
- Sleeplessness or irritability in infants after a cold.
