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Its cold and flu season and with that comes ear infections. In fact,
next to the common cold, ear infections (or otitis media) are the most
prevalent disorder in children. Temporary hearing loss can occur during
the infection, but hearing usually returns to normal as the infection
clears and the fluid drains. Following are some answers to common
questions about ear infections.
What are middle ear infections?
The middle ear a small space between the outer and the inner ear
contains three delicate bones (hammer, anvil and stirrup) that are
important for hearing. Air pressure is kept constant by the eustachian
tube, which leads into the middle ear from the back of the nasal cavity.
When bacteria or a virus invade the middle ear, inflammation and a
buildup of fluid hallmarks of a middle ear infection result.
Middle-ear infections are very common, especially among young children.
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What causes middle-ear infections?
The cause depends on the type of otitis media. Secretory otitis media
occurs when fluids resulting from a cold or allergy enter the middle ear
by way of the eustachian tube. Acute serous otitis media results from a
bacterial or viral infection in addition to fluid buildup. Acute
purulent otitis media is caused by pus from a bacterial infection and
may result in a ruptured eardrum. Chronic otitis media is caused by the
lingering presence of an untreated bacterial infection, infected
adenoids, or problems with the eustachian tube.
How are middle-ear infections treated?
Any indication of a middle ear infection warrants a call to the doctor.
Sometimes the infection goes away by itself, but more often antibiotic
treatment is needed. The doctor will examine the ear with an otoscope,
which allows him or her to see the condition of the eardrum and
determine whether an infection is present. If the infection does not
clear up rapidly with antibiotics and there is danger of a ruptured
eardrum, the doctor may make a tiny incision in the eardrum to drain
away the pus. Some children develop chronic otitis media and a
consequent risk of permanent damage to the eardrum. In such cases, a
tiny drainage tube may be installed to prevent a ruptured eardrum.
The information contained here is intended to complement, not
substitute, the advice of your own physician.
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