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Ear infections are caused when bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae or viruses cause inflammation in the middle ear. These infections occur more commonly in children, although adults can also develop these infections.
The main symptom of an ear infection is pain, which can be sharp, dull, or throbbing but this can be accompanied by fever. Younger children will often pull at their ears when experiencing this discomfort. Other symptoms include difficulty hearing or responding to sounds, fluid draining from the ear, difficulty sleeping, fever, headache, loss of balance, and in infants and toddlers, irritability. Many children may also experience reduced appetite and vomiting.
An otoscope examination is undertaken to determine the diagnosis by checking for redness, swelling, or fluid buildup behind the eardrum.
Treatment for ear infections vary depending on severity and patient age. Over-the-counter medicines like paracetamol and ibuprofen can reduce discomfort and fever in mild infections and can resolve without antibiotics. For bacterial infections, Dr Weightmans can prescribe a short course of antibiotics.
Warm compresses held against the ear, sleeping with the affected ear elevated, and avoiding swimming are home remedies which can also help.
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