Ear Infections

There are two main types of ear infection
• Infections of the outer ear (Otitis externa)
• Infections of the middle ear (Otitis media)

Infections can affect one or both ears.

Outer ear infections
This is often commonly known as ‘swimmer’s ear’. It can also follow trauma such as using cotton buds to clean out your ears. The trauma allows infection to enter the ear canal. It typically presents with
• Pain
• Sometimes decreased hearing
• Discharge
• Itching

Treatment

Avoid the trauma.
Your GP can either give topical antibiotic and steroid drops, or oral antibiotics if the infection is severe.

Prevention

Don’t be tempted to use cotton buds to clean out your ears. If you have a tendency to get a build up of wax in your ears, it is safer to use some olive oil to soften the wax. You can also speak to the pharmacists about over the counter preparations to help soften wax.

If you are a keen swimmer, you could try some of the ear plugs available from the chemist. These are much improved in design.

Middle ear infections

These can be caused by bacteria or viruses.

Symptoms
• Earache
• Deafness in the affected ear
• A feeling of fullness in the ear
• Fever
• Blood and pus coming out of the ear if the ear drum ruptures
• A general feeling of being unwell

Even if the ear drum ruptures it tends to heal.

Treatment
• Many middle ear infections can clear up within three days without treatment.
• Painkillers e.g. paracetamol or ibuprofen ( if there are no contraindications to using it) will help to reduce pain and fever.
• Antibiotics may be prescribed by a GP if your symptoms are not improving.

Source: www.patient.co.uk

Additional information from www.entuk.org