Ear Infections

Introduction

An ear infection can be a painful experience. There are infections specific to the outer and middle ear that can occur independently or in some unlucky people they may occur together.

Outer ear infections are sometimes referred to as “Swimmers ear". As the name suggests, this infection can occur after exposing the ear to water, but this is not necessarily always the case. These infections involve the ear canal and can spread to involve the ear and earlobe in severe cases.

Middle ear infections are more common among children than adults but occur in all ages. In this case the infection begins behind the ear drum. Typically, there is pus present behind the eardrum, which causes pain as the pressure builds. In some cases, the eardrum can perforate, leading to a discharge of pus.

Causes

Like all infections, the cause can be a virus, bacteria or fungus. The exact cause can sometimes be determined with a swab or culture of fluid from the region.

Some people and groups are predisposed to ear infections. People with narrowed ear canals, those using hearing aids and those with some medical conditions are at greater risk of an outer ear infection.

Children tend to experience more middle ear infections due to the shape and size of their middle ear structures as well as their exposure to others with illness through childcare and school.

Symptoms

Symptoms of an ear infection can include:

  • Pain in and around the ear.
  • Referred pain to the teeth, jaw and scalp.
  • Discharge from the ear.
  • Pain on moving or touching the ear.
  • Reduced hearing.
  • Swelling of the ear and ear canal.
  • Fevers and chills.

Children experience all of the same symptoms as adults but may not be able to express them when young. Children with ear infections may be feverish, more irritable, seem to have poor attention or hearing and can have disrupted sleep.

Tests

Laboratory tests such as swabs and cultures can help determine the specific cause in some cases, while further examinations like hearing tests and scans can help assess the magnitude of the problem and the presence of any complications from infection.

Diagnosis

An ear infection is usually diagnosed on the basis of the symptoms described and the findings when the doctor checks the ear. A detailed discussion with Dr Morrissey about the symptoms you are experiencing, and a thorough examination will usually identify the type of ear infection.

Treatment

The solution, in this case, depends upon the problem.

Outer ear infections are usually managed by keeping the ear dry, careful cleaning of the ear under the microscope and through the use of antibiotics or anti-fungal medications. In some cases, underlying risk factors will need to be addressed. Where the infection is severe, further antibiotics and occasionally hospital admission are necessary.

Middle ear infections can be addressed with antibiotics in most cases. When they become a recurrent problem there may be surgical options such as “grommets” or ventilation tubes to consider. “Grommets” are small, plastic tubes, which help ventilate the middle ear. This reduces fluid in the middle ear and has been demonstrated to be beneficial in certain circumstances. Dr Morrissey can help you decide whether this is an appropriate option for you to consider.

Related Information

Grommet Surgery