Ear Infection

Ear infections can be a very unpleasant experience for the sufferer and symptoms can vary from person to person.Infections of the ear are most likely to affect the outer ear (otitis externa) or the middle ear (otitis media) and can occur in anyone but are more common in children.

Causes Of An Ear Infection

Ear infections usually form after exposure to a bacteria, virus or fungus.The reasons as to how these substances are introduced into the ear can range from a build-up of mucous, normally after a head cold, sore throat, allergic response, after the introduction of a foreign body into the ear or because of exposure to the germs from another source. Sharing hearing devices, earrings, spending long periods of time in a swimming pool that does not meet regulatory guidelines or other methods of cross contamination can all also contribute to the likelihood of an infection developing.

Infections of the middle ear can cause the eardrum to swell and become inflamed which can cause nausea and vomiting and quite severe pain.

Signs And Symptoms Of An Ear Infection

Most sufferers will experience some amount of being general unwell and this is often accompanied by a high temperature and earache.If pain increases, or there is bleeding, discharge or particularly high fever, the infection will probably need treating with prescribed medication.Untreated infections can lead to perforation of the eardrum due to inflammation, swelling or a build up of pus or fluid within the ear.

Treatments

The recommended treatment for an ear infection depends of the severity, location and duration of the infection and many infections will clear up by themselves using the body’s natural responses of its immune system. Most infections will start to clear up after 72 hours, though slight hearing loss and discomfort can persist for a few weeks longer.

If the cause is thought to be fungal, anti-fugal creams and drops will be useful. Your GP or pharmacist will be able to suggest an appropriate preparation.Pain relief and anti-biotics are the most likely treatment needed though this prescription will depend on the nature of the infection and the location. Prescriptions may be in the form of drops, creams, liquid suspensions or tablets. The full course of anti-biotic must be taken in order for the infection to be totally resolved.

Occasionally the use of a steroid cream will be suggested to help reduce swelling, and sometimes children will be offered the option of having small tubes (grommets) inserted into their ears in order to keep the canal open and to let infections and fluids drain out more easily.

Complications Of Ear Infections

Very rarely, an infection may cause some longer-term problems such as the infection spreading to the bones of the ear or perforation of the eardrum. Both conditions will be diagnosed by either your GP or an ENT specialist and will be treated accordingly.

Ear infections are very common and usually harmless occurrences that can happen to anyone, especially children. The causes for an ear infection vary greatly and medical treatment is sometimes not necessary, though if it is, will depend on the type of infection, location and severity.