Ear Infections and Earache Health Information

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The medical term for an ear infection or inflammation of the middle ear is called Otitis Media. This inflammation occurs as a result of a middle ear infection and can occur in one or both ears. Otitis media is the most frequent diagnosis recorded for children who visit physicians for illness. It is also the most common cause of hearing loss in children. It occurs most commonly in the winter and early spring months. Otitis Media is serious because of the severe earache and hearing loss it can create. Otitis media is also serious because the infection can spread to nearby structures in the head, especially the mastoid.

Causes of Ear Infections and Earache:

Otitis Media is caused by a blockage of the eustachian tube during a cold, allergy, or upper respiratory infection and the presence of bacteria or viruses lead to the accumulation of fluid behind the eardrum. The build up of pressurized pus in the middle ear causes earache, swelling, and redness.

Symptoms of Ear Infections and Earache:

Symptoms of Otitis Media for infants and toddlers include pulling or scratching at the ear and accompanied by:
  • hearing problems
  • crying, irritability
  • fever
  • vomiting
  • ear drainage
Symptoms of Otitis Media for young children, adolescents, and adults include:
  • earache
  • feeling of fullness or pressure
  • hearing problems
  • dizziness, loss of balance
  • nausea, vomiting
  • ear drainage
  • fever

Treatment for Ear Infections and Earache:

Most of the time, otitis media clears up with proper medication and home treatment. The doctor may prescribe one or more medications.

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