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.
Many people confuse an ear infection with a buildup of earwax. The buildup of wax may cause minor pain and discomfort in the ear, causing an ear ache, but it is easily treated. A doctor will flush the ear and remove the buildup.
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 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.
Summary: Children and adults are susceptible to chronic ear infections. Children and swimmers are the most susceptible. Loss of hearing may occur, or there may be other damages as a result. If the chronic ear infection is severe, there may be a swelling within the brain or a cyst may grow. Surgery may be performed if these items occur. The most common treatment for chronic ear infections is a prescribed oral antibiotic, followed by eardrops or a nasal decongestant. Young children that cannot speak may tug or pull on their ear to indicate pain and pressure. Headaches, loss of balance, or trouble with speech are also symptoms to watch for.
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