Ear Infection

Overview

Ear Infection can either occur in the external ear canal, the middle ear or the inner ear. If it affects the external ear canal, it is called otitis externa and when it affects the middle ear, it is called otitis media. Most commonly, the middle ear is affected.

Signs and Symptoms

Ear pain, Feeling of pressure in the ear, Irritation or itchiness in the ear, Ear discharge, Fever, Reduced hearing, Headache, Trouble sleeping

Common Causes

Allergy, Cold and flu, Injury to the ear, Foreign body in the ear

Risk Factors

Younger age group, Allergy, Common colds, Upper respiratory tract infection, Birth deformities such as cleft palate, Chronic rhinitis, Sinusitis, Swimming, Smoking

Investigation Techniques

Ear examination using otoscope, Ear swab for culture and sensitivity

Treatment and Prevention

Topical antibiotic drop, Oral antibiotic, Nasal decongestant, Paracetamol, Antihistamine, Ear toileting, Mastoidectomy