Ear infections

What is an Ear Infection?

An ear infection, or acute otitis media, occurs when the middle ear becomes inflamed due to a viral or bacterial infection. This typically happens when the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the throat, become blocked.

The Eustachian tubes play a crucial role in ear health. They help regulate air pressure and drain fluid from the middle ear. In children, these tubes are shorter and more horizontal, making them more prone to blockage and subsequent ear infections.

When fluid builds up in the middle ear due to a blocked Eustachian tube, it creates a breeding ground for bacteria or viruses. This can lead to an ear infection.

Ear Infection Symptoms

Is your child tugging at their ear or seeming unusually fussy? These could be signs of an ear infection.

Common ear infection symptoms include:

• Earache, especially when lying down
• Pulling or tugging at the ear
• Excessive crying
• Difficulty hearing or responding to sounds
• Irritability
• Fever
• Headache
• Temporary hearing loss

While ear infections are more common in children, adults can experience them as well, often after a cold or allergy flare-up.

If you suspect an ear infection, schedule a visit to SCC Corsicana. Our healthcare team can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.

Diagnosing Ear Infections

To diagnose an ear infection, our SCC Corsicana medical team will need information about symptoms and will perform a physical exam. During the exam, the provider will use an otoscope to look inside the ears. If the ear looks inflamed, a pneumatic otoscope may be used to confirm whether there is fluid behind the eardrum. A pneumatic otoscope gently puffs air against the eardrum, which should cause the eardrum to move. If the eardrum doesn’t move, or only moves a little, then that means the middle ear is filled with fluid.

Factors Increasing Ear Infection Risk

Several factors can increase your susceptibility to ear infections.

• Weakened immune system: Frequent infections like colds or sinusitis, along with an overall weaker immune system, can elevate the risk of ear infections.
• Allergies: Both seasonal and chronic allergies can contribute to ear infections by causing inflammation and mucus buildup.
• Family history: A family history of ear infections may indicate a genetic predisposition.
• Underlying conditions: Certain physical conditions, such as cleft palate or structural abnormalities in the ear, nose, or throat area, can increase the likelihood of ear infections.

Treating Ear Infections

The best approach to treating an ear infection depends on the individual patient.

Watchful Waiting:

In many cases, especially for older children, ear infections can improve without antibiotics. Our healthcare providers can assess your child's condition and recommend whether a "watch and wait" approach is suitable.

Antibiotic Treatment:

If a bacterial infection is causing the ear infection, antibiotics may be necessary. Our doctors will prescribe the appropriate antibiotic based on your child's age, the severity of the infection, and any allergies.

Managing Discomfort:

While waiting for the infection to clear, you can help ease discomfort with:

• Warm compresses: Applying a warm cloth to the affected ear can soothe pain.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can reduce pain and fever.