Ear infection- symptoms, Causes & Treatment

What is an ear infection?

An ear infection is an infection that affects the microscopic vibrating bones of the ear that are located in the air-filled area beyond the eardrum. The Eustachian tubes, which connect the ear to the throat, may allow germs or viruses to enter the ear and cause infection.

Ear infections can cause symptoms such as pain, pressure, pus-like drainage, hearing loss, fever and balance problems. Most ear infections go away in 3 days or less, but more serious infections can require antibiotic treatment.

What are the symptoms of an ear infection?

An ear infection can affect different parts of the ear and may be caused by bacterial, viral or fungal infections. Depending on whatever area of the ear is infected, the signs and symptoms of an ear infection can change. Common signs of ear infection include:

• Earache (either a sharp, sudden pain or a dull, continuous pain)
• Pus-like ear drainage
• Hearing loss
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Fever

Causes of ear infections

An ear infection can be caused by bacterial, viral or fungal infections that affect different parts of the ear. Some common causes of ear infection are:

Allergies, colds, sinus infections, excess mucus, smoking or changes in air pressure can cause blockage thereby leading to ear infection.

Infections can spread from these glands to the nearby ends of the Eustachian tubes and cause inflammation and swelling.

After swimming or taking a bath, water may stay in the ear, which could provide a moist environment for the growth of bacteria or fungi.

Who is at risk for an ear infection?

There is a numerous factor that can increase a person’s risk of developing an ear infection. These include:

Age:

Ear infections are most common in children, more certainly between the ages of six months and two years. This is because the eustachian tubes in young children are shorter and narrower than those in adults.

Family history:

You are more prone to develop ear infections if your family has a history of ear infections.

Allergies:

Mucus buildup due to sinus and nasal irritation brought on by allergies is possible. This mucus can then drain into the middle ear, increasing the risk of infection.

Daycare:

Children who attend daycare are more likely to get ear infections than children who do not. Kids are more susceptible to cold-causing bacteria and viruses as well as other ailments that might result in ear infections.

Cleft palate: 

Children with cleft palates are more likely to develop ear infections because the opening between the nose and throat is larger.

Smoking:

Children who are exposed to smoking habits are more likely to develop ear infections.

Low birth weight: 

Ear infections are more prone to occur in newborns who are underweight.

Treatment for ear infections

Treatment for ear infections depends on the type, cause and severity of the infection. Some possible treatment options are:

Over-the-counter medications

Over-the-counter medications prescribed by the doctors help relieve pain, inflammation and congestion.

Prescription medications

Prescription medications, such as antibiotics or antivirals to treat bacterial or viral infections, steroids to reduce swelling and inflammation or antinausea medications to prevent vomiting and dizziness.

Some medications may be given as oral pills or liquids, while others may be given as ear drops.

Surgery

If other therapies are ineffective for treating chronic or recurrent ear infections, surgery may be advised.

It is crucial to consult a doctor if you have severe or persistent symptoms, such as fever, pus-like discharge, hearing loss, or dizziness. Some ear infections may resolve on their own without treatment.

Prevention of ear infections

Germs that can cause ear infections can be stopped from spreading by practising good hygiene.

This includes washing your hands frequently, avoid touching your ears or nose, and covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.

Avoiding earwax buildup can help keep the ear canal clear and prevent blockage of the eustachian tubes. Avoid putting anything inside your ear canal when gently cleaning your ears with a moist cloth or cotton swab, such as cotton buds or hairpins.

Breastfeeding can help protect babies from ear infections by providing them with antibodies that fight off infections. Breastfed babies also tend to have fewer colds and allergies that can lead to ear infections.

Vaccinations can help prevent some of the illnesses that can cause ear infections, such as influenza, pneumococcal disease, and measles.

Conclusion

Ear infections are common and often painful conditions that can affect different parts of the ear. They can be caused by bacterial, viral or fungal infections that result from fluid buildup, infected adenoids or exposure to contaminated water.

Some ear infections, though, may go away on their own and not require medication. It’s critical to maintain proper cleanliness, reduce earwax buildup, nurse infants if possible, and get immunised against specific diseases to prevent ear infections.

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