Otitis Media in Adults |
|
|
| |
DESCRIPTION
|
|
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.
|
|
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.
|
|
|