Ear Infections
Ear Infections
Ear infections often develop from a cold or other viral infection that affects the inner ear and causes mucus buildup.
While more common in children, ear infections can also affect adults.
Private GPs can provide treatment, including antibiotics when necessary.
Severe or persistent infections may require referral to an ENT consultant for further assessment and treatment.
Symptoms of an Ear Infection in Adults
Symptoms of ear infections can vary but often include:
- Nausea
- Difficulty hearing
- Pain in the ears (dull and continuous or sharp and sudden)
- A clogged feeling or a sensation of fullness in the ear
- Fluid leakage or drainage, sometimes accompanied by pain
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Causes of Ear Infections
The middle ear, the space behind the eardrum, is filled with air and contains three small bones that conduct sound from the eardrum to the inner ear. This space is connected to the throat through the Eustachian tube.
When a cold or similar infection occurs, fluid or pus can accumulate in the middle ear, causing inflammation and swelling that prevents proper drainage. Trapped fluid allows bacteria or viruses to grow, leading to an ear infection.
Other causes of ear infections include:
- Swimming or water trapped in the ear
- Allergies
- Insertion of cotton buds or objects into the ear
- Treatments for ear wax removal or eczema
Symptoms of Ear Infections
Symptoms vary depending on whether the infection affects the outer, middle, or inner ear.
Inner Ear Infections
- Vomiting and nausea
- Dizziness
- Ear pain
Inner ear infections may indicate inflammation of deeper tissues and, in some cases, a more serious condition like meningitis.
Middle Ear Infections
- Reduced hearing
- Fever
- Fluid drainage from the ear
- Earache
- Feeling of fullness in the ear
Middle ear infections, also called Otitis Media, occur when fluid is trapped behind the eardrum, causing a bulge and pain.
Outer Ear Infections
- Swelling
- Redness
- Itchy rash
- Tenderness and pain
Outer ear infections, also called Otitis Externa, affect the ear canal between the ear lobe and the eardrum.
Treatment for Ear Infections
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the infection:
Outer Ear Infection
Typically involves cleaning the ear canal to remove debris and pus, followed by ear drops. Severe swelling may require a wick to administer drops. Oral antibiotics are usually not necessary.
Middle Ear Infection
Often requires oral antibiotics and, in some cases, drainage under anaesthetic to relieve pressure and infection.
Inner Ear Infection
Usually caused by viral infections. Symptoms can resolve on their own but may take several weeks to fully improve.
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