Otitis Media

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a type of herpes virus that's extremely common worldwide. In the United States alone, it's estimated that between 50 and 80 percent of people have a CMV-related infection by age 40, and 1 in 3 children experience these infections by age 5. Due to such a high prevalence, you may be wondering about the potential dangers and risks associated with CMV. Read on to learn more about this virus, as well as the similarities and differences between other herpes viruses. CMV is a highly contagious virus that's spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, and urine. The virus is rarely spread through blood and organ donations, due to modern preventive and treatment measures. It may be CMV is a common virus that's related to the same viruses that lead to mononucleosis and chickenpox. Most people will encounter CMV during their lifetimes, but the majority will experience mild symptoms only. However, CMV can cause more severe infections if you have a w...

Treatment is required for various types of ear conditions, such as ear infections, bullous myringitis (infection of the eardrum), and eustachian tube dysfunction. In some cases, prescription ear drops or other types of medications will need to be used. Over-the-counter (OTC) ear drops can be used to help relieve symptoms associated with these types of conditions, but there are no available OTC ear drops that will treat infections. In the case of other issues such as wax buildup, OTC ear drops may be used as a possible form of treatment. PhotoAlto / Ale Ventura / Getty Images Earwax Removal Drops Excess buildup of earwax can lead to a variety of unwanted symptoms, including: Fullness in the ear Ear pain Hearing loss Ear ringing (tinnitus) Itchiness inside the ear Ear discharge Ear odor Dizziness Ear infections When the wax builds up enough to cause symptoms, removal is required. It can be done using ear drops. OTC ear dr...

Fluid in the middle ear is also known as serous otitis media. This condition happens for many reasons but most commonly comes from a middle ear infection. Other reasons could be allergies, sinus infections, viral infections, and even acid reflux. As the pain and inflammation from the ear infection get better, the fluid doesn't always leave the middle ear. The inflammation from the ear infection often causes the lining of the eustachian tube to swell shut. Sometimes you can treat this condition at home or with a simple prescription. Other times, surgical intervention is needed.   This article discusses how to drain fluid from the middle ear. Verywell / Jessica Olah Middle Ear Anatomy The human ear is divided into three sections: The outer ear The middle ear The inner ear The middle ear is connected to your throat by a canal, or opening, known as the eustachian tube. The main job of the eustachian tube is to keep...

Otitis media, or a middle ear infection, is one of the most common infections your child may experience, and adults can experience it as well. You may turn to homeopathic remedies to relieve pain and symptoms during the "watchful waiting" period that pediatricians and primary care providers often recommend before prescribing antibiotics. vgajic / Getty Images As many cases of otitis media are viral rather than bacterial and will clear on their own, this waiting period will show whether antibiotics are necessary. However, you or your child may be in pain and have a fever, so the standard treatment includes pain relievers like ibuprofen.   Homeopathic treatments might be used in hopes of symptom relief, but there is little scientific evidence that they are effective. Currently, there are no complementary or alternative medicine (CAM) practices that have been proven to be effective for acute otitis media.   Homeopathy ...

Ear infections occur when there is fluid buildup in the ear that causes blockages and inflammation. In adults, ear infections are commonly treated with over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers or prescription medications like antibiotics. This article will discuss the types of ear infections as well as symptoms and treatment. Stockstudiox / Getty Images Anatomy of an Ear Infection The ear is divided into the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. Infection can occur in any of these areas, but bacterial infections of the inner ear are extremely rare. Bacteria, viruses, and fungi can cause infections in the ear. Infections can be brought on by an illness, such as a cold or allergies. Ear infections generally occur when bacteria, viruses, or fungi gain entry into one of the three areas of the ear and cause infection. Outer Ear Infections Outer ear infections are sometimes called swimmer's ear,...

Favorite Orgs for Essential Tinea Versicolor Info Mayo Clinic The Mayo Clinic offers a wealth of patient care information related to various health topics, including tinea versicolor. You'll find an overview of symptoms, causes, complications, treatments, and prevention tips. Got a skin concern? Use the website's Find a Doctor tool to locate a dermatologist. American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) The AAD is another excellent source for trustworthy information about tinea versicolor. Its website not only provides a comprehensive overview of this skin infection but you'll find self-care tips and a handout on how to care for a child with tinea versicolor. There's also a tool to locate a board-certified dermatologist near you. American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD) The mission of the AOCD is to provide support and education in the field of dermatology. Its website provides images of tinea versicolor, as well as information on symptoms and causes. There...

The main difference between a yeast infection and UTI is what causes them, which affects how each one is treated. Yeast infections are caused by a fungus called candida and are often treated with antifungal medication. UTIs are caused by a bacterial infection and are often treated with antibiotics. This article was medically reviewed by G. Thomas Ruiz, MD, OB/GYN Lead at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California and Kecia Gaither, MD MPH FACOG, Director of Perinatal Services at NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln.  If you've experienced discomfort in your pelvic and genital area, it may not be an STD. Yeast infections and urinary tract infections are common and can also cause uncomfortable and painful symptoms in those a...

Medically known as onychomycosis, toenail fungus is a common fungal infection that starts as a white or yellow spot under the nail beds. The fungus grows and spreads to other nails if left untreated, making them hard and unsightly. Eventually, the fungus causes the nails to separate from your nail bed, which can be painful and smell quite bad. Toenail fungus is a problem that affects at least 5.5% of adults worldwide, but it's more prevalent in men. According to Shari Lipner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, toenail fungus can be challenging because the nails grow very slowly. The more severe the infection, the thicker the nails, making them grow slowly. The secret is to diagnose the fungal infection early and treat it before it gets too severe. Thankfully, a good fungus supplement can clear up the infection. Fungus supplements use ingredients like vitamins, minerals, and herbs to support your body's natural defenses against fun...