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TurkishThe middle ear is the part of the ear that starts from the inner part of the eardrum and consists of the eardrum and 3 bones. Middle ear infections are inflammations that can be caused by microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses as well as the immune system. Otitis media, often known as a middle ear infection, can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in infants between the ages of 6 and 15 months.
What Causes Middle Ear Infection?
Most middle ear infections are caused by mucus that builds up in the middle ear due to infections such as flu and colds. If the Eustachian tube in the middle ear swells, the accumulated mucus cannot drain and inflammation begins to occur. In some cases, the adenoid swells and causes blockage of the Eustachian tube, and if this condition has become chronic, the adenoid must be reduced. The reason why the risk of infection is higher in young children is that the Eustachian tube is very narrow compared to adults and the adenoid is large.
Symptoms of Middle Ear Infection
One of the most common symptoms of middle ear infections is ear pain.
Ear pain is especially unpleasant in the early stages of the disease, and in some cases, it can wake you up from sleep. In addition to pain, symptoms such as hearing problems and fever are also observed.
In bacterial infections, the eardrum swells and stretches and the pain intensity increases. If fluid builds up in the middle ear, there is a danger of rupturing the eardrum, and if this happens, bloody pus or discharge may come from the ear. Other common symptoms include:
- High fever
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Feeling sick and tired
- Balance problems
- Slight decrease in hearing
- Ear discharge
How is a Middle Ear Infection Treated?
Most middle ear infections go away on their own without any special treatment. In some cases, appropriate medications can be used to reduce pain and lower fever. In some cases where the intensity of infection is high, it is necessary to clean the inflammation inside the ear. Throat sprays and antibiotics are used to relieve congestion in the Eustachian tube and nose, but these medications are preferred on the advice of a physician and in the presence of certain symptoms.
However, in cases that do not go away despite the use of medication and cause severe pain, surgical intervention may be necessary. In this operation, the eardrum is scratched and the possible risk of perforation of the eardrum is prevented. In addition, it may be useful to remove or reduce the adenoid in infections due to hereditary adenoid enlargement. In order to prevent ear infections in babies, it is important to pay attention to the baby's rest, to ensure that the nutrition is balanced and to protect the baby from polluted air conditions.
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