WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is otitis media? Otitis media is an ear infection. What causes otitis media? You may get an ear infection when your eustachian tubes become swollen or blocked. Eustachian tubes connect the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat. They drain fluid from the middle ear. With an ear infection, fluid builds up and is infected by germs, which grow easily in the fluid trapped behind the eardrum. What are the signs and symptoms of otitis media? - You have a fever or a headache.
- You have ear pain.
- You have trouble hearing.
- Your ear may feel plugged or full. You may have ringing or buzzing in your ear.
- You may be dizzy or lose your balance.
- You may have nausea or vomiting.
How is otitis media diagnosed? Your healthcare provider will look inside your ears. He may blow a puff of air inside your ears. These tests tell healthcare providers if your eardrums look healthy. If your eardrum is infected, it will look red and swollen and not move as it should. A tympanogram is another test that may be done. During the test, an ear plug is put into each of your ears and air pressure is used to see how the eardrum moves. It can help your healthcare provider learn if you have fluid in your middle ear. How is otitis media treated? - Ibuprofen or acetaminophen helps decrease your pain and fever. They are available without a doctor's order. Ask your healthcare provider which medicine is right for you. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. These medicines can cause stomach bleeding if not taken correctly. Ibuprofen can cause kidney damage. Do not take ibuprofen if you have kidney disease, an ulcer, or allergies to aspirin. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage. Do not drink alcohol if you take acetaminophen.
- Ear drops help treat your ear pain.
- Antibiotics help treat a bacterial infection that caused your ear infection.
How can I manage my symptoms? - Heat may be used to decrease your pain. Place a warm, moist washcloth on your ear. Apply for 15 to 20 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day
- Ice helps decrease swelling and pain. Use an ice pack or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover the ice pack with a towel and place it on your ear for 15 to 20 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day for 2 days.
How can I help prevent otitis media? - Wash your hands often. Use soap and water. Wash your hands after you use the bathroom, change a child's diapers, or sneeze. Wash your hands before you prepare or eat food.
- Stay away from people who are ill. Some germs are easily and quickly spread through contact.
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - Your ear pain gets worse or does not go away, even after treatment.
- The outside of your ear is red or swollen.
- You are vomiting or have diarrhea.
- You have fluid coming from your ear.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
When should I seek immediate care? - You have a seizure.
- You have a fever and a stiff neck.
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