Recognizing and Treating Middle Ear Infections

Do you have unexplained ear pain that won't seem to go away? It could be a middle ear infection. Middle ear infections are more common in children, but they can occur in people of all ages. Learning to recognize the symptoms will allow you to get to the doctor for treatment quicker, saving you from a lot of pain.

What Causes a Middle Ear Infection?

Middle ear infections are usually caused by bacteria, but they can also be caused by viruses. The infections are most common in children because they have smaller and narrower Eustachian tubes (the tubes leading from the outer ear to the middle ear) than adults, allowing more bacteria to enter the middle ear.

What Are the Symptoms of a Middle Ear Infection?

The most common symptom of a middle ear infection is pain in the infected ear, but you may notice other symptoms, including

• Fluid leaking from ear
• Fever
• Vomiting or loss of appetite
• Pressure or fullness in the ear
• Ringing in the ear
• Dizziness
• Trouble hearing

How Is a Middle Ear Infection Diagnosed?

Once you tell your doctor the ear symptoms you are experiencing, he or she will probably examine the inside of your ear using an otoscope. Your doctor will be able to see if there is fluid buildup in the ear or other signs of an infection. Further testing isn't usually needed.

How Is a Middle Ear Infection Treated?

Many ear infections are not severe enough to require treatment and will heal up on their own in a few days. In these cases, your doctor may prescribe a pain killer to use while your ear heals or may recommend the use of over-the-counter pain killers.

For more severe bacterial ear infections, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic. Make sure that you use the antibiotic for the full length of the prescribed treatment; never stop taking an antibiotic just because you feel better.

How Can Middle Ear Infections Be Prevented?

Middle ear infections can often be prevented by following these two simple guidelines:

Keep smoke out of the ear

Getting smoke  into the ear can increase the risk of middle ear infections. Even if you don't smoke, you could still be at risk if you are frequently around others who do. Avoid secondhand smoke exposure as much as possible.

Wash your hands

Infections (including middle ear infections) cannot spread as easily if you frequently wash your hands. Talk to an ear, nose, and throat doctor for more information.

Share