Although typically seen in children, ear infections can also affect adults. While ear pain is considered very minor, it tends to affect an individual's daily lifestyle. Even simple activities such as chewing can be very difficult and cause issues such as hearing disabilities and fever.
Among all types of ear infections, an ENT doctor in Siliguri states that Acute Otitis Media can be especially painful. However, to get proper treatment, it is essential to understand the symptoms, causes, and other treatment options. In this blog, we will be discussing this type of infection in detail to help you make an informed decision while seeking medical help.
Understanding Acute Otitis Media
Acute Otitis Media (AOM) is often caused by viral or bacterial infection. This affects the middle ear region, which includes space behind the eardrums. Individuals usually get this infection after being affected with illnesses such as sore throat, cold, or respiratory infections, which cause swelling or blockage in the Eustachian tube. The fluid buildup caused by these conditions often causes infections that travel to the nose, throat, and ears.
According to an ENT specialist in Siliguri, these conditions are also very common among children from 3 months to 3 years. The Eustachian tubes are shorter, making the infection travel to the ear. Some of the most common bacteria causing this ear infection are Moraxella catarrhalis and Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Symptoms Related to Acute Otitis Media
There is a significant distinction in the manifestation of Acute Otitis Media (AOM) symptoms between children and adults. According to an ENT doctor in Siliguri, in children, some of the most common symptoms to look out for are irritability, crying, tugging ears, and fluid drainage from the ears. This is also accompanied by diarrhea and vomiting, along with a lack of balance.
In adults, this infection causes muffled hearing and fluid drainage, which is accompanied by acute pain in the ears. While it is not very common, adults can also face problems related to balancing their body, have a sore throat, and fever. However, the symptoms associated with this infection can also be linked to other conditions, so it is essential to get checked by a professional before making any decision.
Treatment Options for Acute Otitis Media
There are various ways to treat these conditions alone, but all must be initiated after input from an ENT specialist. Specialists usually examine the ear with the use of an otoscope and look for signs such as redness, swelling, and fluid buildup. Let us look into a few treatment options for AOM
1. Antibiotics
If symptoms do not improve even after 48 hours, a specialist will prescribe antibiotics to help with the pain and these symptoms. Amoxicillin is one of the main antibiotics that is often used to treat infections.
2. Ear Tubes
If the ATOM becomes chronic, especially when it comes to children, ENT doctors in Siliguri tend to insert a small tube into the eardrum. This helps the tube ventilate the eardrum efficiently and prevent fluid buildup. This procedure, typically conducted under anesthesia, is recommended for patients experiencing ear discharge..
3. Surgical Intervention
If AOM becomes very severe and results in hearing loss, speech delays, or damage to the warm, doctors will suggest that the patient undergo surgical interventions. This can be done to remove any adenoids or repair the damaged eardrum.
Conclusion
Acute Otitis Media is no mere earworm. It is a painful and sometimes serious condition that demands timely attention. Though many cases resolve on their own, medical treatment may be necessary to prevent complications. For residents dealing with frequent or severe ear infections, getting expert care from a reputableENT doctor in Siliguri ensures accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and peace of mind.