Chalazion (cyst): Symptoms, pictures, causes, and treatment
Having Ear Infection? What Are It's Early Symptoms That One Should Know
Ear infections are unpleasant, but identifying them early can make a big difference in the treatment process. A middle ear infection, also known as acute otitis media, infects the air-filled region beneath the eardrum that contains the microscopic vibrating bones of the ear. Here are some early symptoms that may indicate an ear infection.
1. Ear Pain or DiscomfortOne of the most common early signs of an ear infection is pain or discomfort in the ear. This may range from a mild ache to sharp, stabbing pain. Infants and young children may express this discomfort by tugging or pulling at their ears.
2. Fluid DrainageIf you notice fluid draining from the ear, it could be a sign of an infection. The fluid may be clear, yellow, or even contain pus. This drainage might also be accompanied by a foul smell.
Also read: Ear Infection Increases In Winter, Here's How You Can Prevent It
3. Reduced HearingA decrease in hearing ability can occur with an ear infection. You might feel like your hearing is muffled or that there is pressure in the affected ear.
In infants and young children, an ear infection may lead to increased irritability and fussiness. They may have difficulty sleeping and could cry more than usual.
5. FeverRunning a fever is a common response to infections, and ear infections are no exception. If you or your child has an unexplained fever, it's worth considering the possibility of an ear infection.
6. Balance IssuesThe ear plays a crucial role in maintaining balance, and an infection can disrupt this equilibrium. If you or someone you know experiences dizziness or problems with balance, it could be related to an ear infection.
7. Pressure or Fullness SensationSome people with ear infections describe a feeling of fullness or pressure in the affected ear. It may feel like something is blocking or weighing down the ear canal.
8. Difficulty SleepingEar pain and discomfort can make it challenging to get a good night's sleep. If you or your child is having difficulty sleeping, especially when lying down, it could be a sign of an ear infection.
9. Changes in AppetiteInfants and young children may experience changes in their eating habits when dealing with an ear infection. This could manifest as a decreased appetite.
10. Ear Redness or SwellingVisible signs of redness or swelling around the ear might indicate an infection. In some cases, the outer ear or ear canal may appear inflamed.
If you or someone you know is experiencing these early symptoms, it's essential to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. Keep in mind that this information is for general awareness, and individual cases may vary, so seeking professional medical advice is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Double Ear Infection In Children: Expert Lists Its Symptoms, Causes, And Treatment
An ear infection can be bothersome as it can cause ear pain, headaches, fever, and other health conditions like meningitis. But what happens when the infection happens in both ears? This condition in which both the middle ears become infected and inflamed is known as a double ear infection. It can cause various complications and may even lead to hearing loss and rupture of your eardrum if not treated on time. We spoke to our expert Dr Prachi Bhosle Narendra, MBBS, DCH and Developmental Paediatrics, Apollo Cradle and Children Hospital, Marathahalli, Bangalore, who explained double ear infections, their symptoms, causes, and treatment.
What Is Double Ear Infection?A double ear infection, medically termed bilateral otitis media, occurs due to the inflammation or infection in both ears' middle ear, typically caused by bacteria or virus.
"The middle ear is located behind the eardrum and is susceptible to infections caused by bacteria or viruses. This condition primarily affects children, although it can occur in adults. It involves the inflammation and buildup of fluid behind the eardrums leading to discomfort and potential complications if left untreated", said Dr Narendra.
According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), it is estimated that by the time they are three, five out of six kids will have experienced an ear infection. When it comes to child visits to the doctor, ear infections are really the most frequent cause.
Also Read: Headphones Or Earphones: What's Good For Your Ears? Expert Explains Their Impact On Hearing
Symptoms Of Double Ear InfectionThe symptoms of a double ear infection can be distressing, Dr Narendra listed some of them as follows:
Several factors contribute to the development of double ear infections. Here are some of them listed by Dr Nardendra:
If a double ear infection is left untreated, it can result in severe complications, which include:
"Diagnosis involves a physical examination of the ears using an otoscope to check for redness, fluid buildup or pus behind the eardrums", said Dr Narendra.
He added, "In some cases, a tympanometry, which measures the movement of the eardrum in response to air pressure changes or a hearing test might be recommended. A fluid analysis can be done to examine if fluid drainage is present and analyse it for infection-causing agents."
How To Treat Double Ear Infection?Some of the treatments are listed below to alleviate symptoms and clear the infection:
Dr Narendra concluded, "While double ear infections can be uncomfortable and concerning, timely identification and appropriate treatment can significantly reduce their impact. It's crucial to consult a medical expert if symptoms arise, especially in children, to ensure proper management and prevent potential complications. Early intervention remains key to a swift recovery and the prevention of recurrent infections."
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you notice any symptoms to avoid complications.]
Crackling In Ear: Symptoms, Causes And Treatment
Many conditions can cause crackling in the ear, the most common of which are listed below.
Earwax BuildupCerumen, commonly known as earwax, provides lubricating and antibacterial properties in the ear. However, when someone has too much earwax, they may be diagnosed with cerumen impaction, or an earwax blockage. Among other symptoms, this buildup of earwax can cause a crackling noise in the ear.
"Excessive earwax in the ear canal can become impacted against the eardrum and produce a crackling sound," explains Nicole Aaronson, M.D., a pediatric otolaryngologist in Jacksonville, Florida.
Other symptoms of an earwax blockage may include:
Earwax can often be softened at home with drops of baby oil, glycerin or mineral oil. People with an earwax blockage can also make an appointment with a health care provider who can determine the best treatment plan.
Eustachian Tube DysfunctionEustachian tubes connect the middle ear and the back of the nose. When operating normally, eustachian tubes open with a yawn or a swallow and drain the mucus produced in the middle ear.
If a person's eustachian tubes become chronically blocked, they may be diagnosed with eustachian tube dysfunction.
"Eustachian tube dysfunction creates an inability to equalize pressure between the surrounding environment and the middle ear," explains Dr. Aaronson. As a result, crackling in the ear may occur.
Other eustachian tube symptoms include ear discomfort, an "underwater" sensation or clogged feeling and difficulty hearing. If left untreated, long-term eustachian tube dysfunction can result in hearing loss.
Middle Ear InfectionAcute otitis media is an infection in the middle ear. While middle ear infections are more commonly experienced by children, anyone at any age can get a middle ear infection. Symptoms can include earaches, trouble sleeping and a crackling or popping sound in the ear.
If fluid remains in the middle ear for a prolonged period, someone might experience mild hearing loss. Usually, hearing loss due to a middle ear infection is temporary, though it can last several weeks if fluid remains.
Sometimes, ear infections resolve on their own. If the infection is bacterial, a health care provider may prescribe an antibiotic.
Temporomandibular Joint DysfunctionTemporomandibular disorders are a group of conditions that cause pain in the jaw. Among other effects, these conditions can cause temporomandibular joint dysfunction, which can cause pain in a joint or muscle surrounding the jaw and ear.
Temporomandibular disorders can cause a crackling or popping sound in the ear. If other symptoms aren't present, it typically doesn't need treatment.
However, someone should see a health care provider if severe symptoms are present, including:
Typically the least severe cause of ear crackling, ear barotrauma is a reaction to air pressure change. This condition often occurs when elevation varies, such as when an airplane takes off or when a person scuba dives.
Usually, ear barotrauma can be resolved with environment-specific remedies, such as chewing gum on a plane or descending (or ascending) slowly while scuba diving. If these methods don't work, a health care provider may prescribe a decongestant or steroid to provide relief.
Middle Ear Myoclonus"Middle ear myoclonus (MEM) is caused by spasms of the tensor tympani and stapedius, which are small middle ear muscles," explains Dr. Aarsonson, "These spasms can transmit vibrations to the eardrum and hearing bones and produce crackling sounds."
Of the six most common causes, MEM is the rarest. It's a form of tinnitus, so the noise in the ear is only audible to the affected person. MEM symptoms vary and can include throbbing, a bubbling sensation, tapping or buzzing in the ear.
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