Middle Ear Infection

Middle ear infection is a common condition that causes annoying symptoms and usually goes away on its own.

Middle ear infection

Middle ear infection occurs when the bacteria or viruses infect the space behind the eardrum in which there is fluid.

Otitis media is very common in children under the age of two, but it can affect anyone at any age.

Causes and risk factors of middle ear infection

• In most of the cases, a middle ear infection starts with a viral infection, like a cold. However, it can be caused by bacteria, such as streptococcus pneumoniae and haemophilus influenza.
• The risk of otitis media increases due to the following factors: family history, immunodeficiency, being around many other children, and bad air quality and smoky environments.

Symptoms of middle ear infection

• Symptoms of middle ear infection often start suddenly and cause: ear pain, fullness or pressure in the ear, and hearing issues.
• Young kids can show the following signs: rubbing or tugging the ear, fussiness or irritability, not responding to sounds as usual, trouble eating and sleeping, and fever.
• Middle ear infections can lead to a ruptured eardrum and mastoiditis.

Diagnosis of middle ear infection

• Ear exam.
• Asking about the symptoms.

Treatment of middle ear infection

• In most of the cases, middle ear infections don’t require any treatment.
• Pain relievers.
• Some cases might need antibiotics.
• Managing other issues that may manifest later.

The risk of otitis media can be reduced by:

• Breastfeeding the baby for the first 0.5-2 years of life.
• Giving the bottle to the baby in an upright position.
• Making a suitable environment for the baby.
• Keeping the baby up to date on the vaccines.
• Teaching the children about how to take care of their hygiene.