Middle Ear Infection

A middle ear infection occurs when the tissues inside the middle ear become inflamed. Fluid or pus may accumulate behind the eardrum, leading to symptoms such as:

๐ Ear pain

๐ A blocked or muffled sensation in the ear

๐ Reduced hearing

๐ Ringing or unusual sounds in the ear

๐ Dizziness or loss of balance

๐ Fluid or pus draining from the ear if the eardrum has perforated

Treatment depends on whether the condition is acute or chronic, its underlying cause, and the severity of the symptoms.

Acute Middle Ear Infection

Acute otitis media often develops after a cold or respiratory infection. It may be caused by bacteria or viruses.

Treatment may include:

๐ Pain-relieving medication

๐ Fever-reducing medication

๐ Antibiotics when a bacterial infection is suspected or confirmed

๐ Removal of discharge by a healthcare professional when necessary

๐ Close monitoring, particularly in children

Antibiotics are not required for every case and should be used according to a doctor’s assessment.

Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media

Chronic suppurative otitis media involves persistent or recurrent middle ear inflammation, often with a perforated eardrum and repeated ear discharge.

It may be associated with:

๐ Recurrent infections

๐ Poor Eustachian tube function

๐ Chronic adenoid enlargement or inflammation

๐ Allergic nasal conditions

๐ Damage to the eardrum or middle-ear structures

Treatment aims to control the infection, keep the ear dry, restore hearing when possible, and prevent further complications.

Treatment may include:

๐ Antibiotic ear drops when prescribed

๐ Oral antibiotics in selected cases

๐ Professional cleaning or suctioning of ear discharge

๐ Treatment of associated nasal allergies or sinus problems

๐ Surgery when the eardrum or middle-ear structures require repair

Medicines Used to Treat Middle Ear Infections

Antibiotics

Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections. Depending on the condition, they may be given as:

๐ Oral medication

๐ Medicated ear drops

The type and duration of treatment depend on the severity of the infection and whether the eardrum is intact.

Ear drops should not be used without professional advice because some products may be unsafe when the eardrum is perforated.

Pain-Relieving Medication

Medicines such as paracetamol or other suitable pain relievers may be used to reduce ear pain and fever.

Anti-Inflammatory Treatment

Anti-inflammatory medicines may help reduce pain and inflammation in selected patients. They should be used according to medical or pharmaceutical advice.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be considered when symptoms are severe, repeatedly return, or do not improve with appropriate medical treatment.

Drainage of Middle-Ear Fluid

A doctor may make a small opening in the eardrum to drain fluid or pus. A ventilation tube may sometimes be inserted to improve airflow and reduce recurrent fluid accumulation.

Adenoid Surgery

Removal of enlarged or chronically inflamed adenoids may be considered, particularly in children with repeated middle ear infections or persistent Eustachian tube obstruction.

Eardrum or Middle-Ear Surgery

Patients with chronic infection, a persistent eardrum perforation, damaged hearing bones, or other complications may require surgery to repair the affected structures.

Self-Care During a Middle Ear Infection

In addition to following the doctor’s treatment plan, patients should:

๐ Get enough rest.

๐ Take prescribed medication exactly as directed.

๐ Keep the affected ear dry.

๐ Avoid swimming and diving until the doctor confirms that it is safe.

๐ Avoid inserting cotton buds, fingers, or other objects into the ear.

๐ Avoid forceful nose blowing.

๐ Sneeze with the mouth open to reduce pressure inside the ears.

๐ Use a cold or warm compress wrapped in cloth to relieve discomfort if appropriate.

Hearing aids should only be considered after an examination and hearing assessment, particularly when hearing loss continues after the infection has been treated.

When to See a Doctor

Medical assessment is recommended when:

๐ Ear pain is severe or continues to worsen.

๐ Fever persists.

๐ Pus, blood, or fluid drains from the ear.

๐ Hearing becomes noticeably reduced.

๐ Dizziness or balance problems develop.

๐ Symptoms repeatedly return.

๐ Swelling or redness appears behind the ear.

๐ The patient develops facial weakness.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help prevent chronic infection, hearing loss, and damage to the structures inside the middle ear.

 

Reference :

Bangkok Hospital Phuket Middle Ear Infection

ArokaGO Providers Bangkok Hospital Phuket