What is a Chronic Ear Infection? People of all ages are susceptible to chronic ear infections , especially youth and those who swim. An infection of the ear will affect the inner ear (labrynthitis), the middle ear (otis media), and the outer ear (otis externa), the most common type of infection being within the middle ear. If the ear infection is not fully healed by twelve weeks, it is considered to be chronic. Typical symptoms are severe pressure and pain in the ear.
Pain within the ear is often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. They can also be caused by a buildup of fluid. Common colds, living at a high altitude level, other climate qualities, and swimming are all typical causes of ear infections.
Earwax buildup is often confused with having an ear infection. This buildup can cause an earache, but the wax can be properly flushed by a doctor and is not long-term.
Affects of chronic ear infections are a loss of hearing, issues of speech development, lack of balance, paralysis in the face, and swelling of the brain that surrounds the ear. Seek medical attention immediately, if dizziness, fever, or swelling occurs.
How is it treated? Some chronic ear infections are treated with prescribed oral decongestants, nasal sprays, or antibiotics, and can the treatment can take several months to become fully effective. For more intense cases, surgery may be conducted to insert tubes into the ear that will help drain any buildup of fluids.
Every patient will have different array of symptoms. Pain will vary. Other symptoms may include a pus-like drainage, redness within the ear, or blood in the middle ear. A doctor will test the complete ear and sinus passages, searching for any blockage or fluids buildup.
If the infection has developed a cyst, or it has spread to the mastoid bone of the middle ear, surgery can be expected and necessary.
Brief summary: Chronic ear infections are often found in children, but can occur in people of any age. The infection may cause a loss of hearing or further damage that is permanent to the ear. In severe chronic ear infections, a cyst may develop or there may be swelling of the brain around the ear. The common treatment for chronic ear infections is oral antibiotics, eardrops, or a nasal decongestant. If the case of the infection is extreme, surgery to insert tubes may take place. Surgery will also be conducted to remove the cyst or address the swelling of the brain. Children that cannot yet speak may tug on their ear to indicate pain. Headaches may occur and balance may be affected.
