WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
Otitis (o-TIE-tis) media (me-DEE-uh) is an infection of
the middle ear (the area behind the eardrum). With treatment,
you will feel better in a few days. However, if you are not
treated, your eardrum could break or the infection could
spread. You might also develop a permanent hearing
loss.
Causes
Middle ear infections can be
caused by a variety of viruses and bacteria. They often follow
a cold. People who have allergy attacks and those with broken
eardrums are especially prone to this type of infection. The
ear infection is not contagious.
Signs/Symptoms
Likely symptoms include ear pain,
plugged ears, diminished hearing, ringing in the ear, headache,
and fever. You may feel dizzy and have trouble walking. Some
people get an upset stomach and vomit or have diarrhea. If the
eardrum breaks, you may notice fluid leaking from the
ear.
Care
Antibiotics are often prescribed
to treat a middle ear infection. You may also need medicine to
reduce pain and fever. For severe infections, the doctor may
recommend insertion of a pressure-equalizing tube through the
eardrum.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
-
If your doctor has prescribed antibiotics, be sure to
finish all the medication. If you stop treatment too soon,
some bacteria may survive and cause a second
infection.
-
A heating pad (set on low) or a warm water bottle on
the ear may provide some relief. Do not lie on the heating
pad.
-
You may also put an icebag or ice in a wet washcloth
over the ear to ease the pain.
-
Do not put anything in your ear unless your doctor
tells you to.
-
Over-the-counter drugs, such as acetaminophen and
ibuprofen, are effective in relieving pain. Your doctor may
also give you ear drops to ease your discomfort. Always
take medicine exactly as directed.
-
You may return to school or work when your
temperature is normal (98.6 degrees F or 37 degrees
C).
-
Do not smoke or go swimming as long as you are taking
antibiotics.
-
Cover your ears in cold weather.
-
Try to stay away from people with colds, and wash
your hands if you touch someone who has this kind of
infection.
Call Your Doctor If...
-
You do not feel better in a few
hours.
-
You develop a high temperature, start vomiting, or
have diarrhea
-
Your ear pain gets worse or you develop swelling
around the ear.
-
You develop a rash, itching, or swelling after taking
your medicine.
-
You get a really bad headache or pain near your
ear.
Seek Care Immediately If...
-
You have a seizure, your facial muscles begin to
twitch, or you pass out.
-
You become dizzy, develop a stiff neck, or cannot
walk normally.
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