Earache, crying, beware of acute otitis media!
Earache, irritability – it may be acute otitis media at work. An elderly man, Mr. Lee, has recently complained of frequent ear pain, coupled with mood swings, and his family has become worried. This is not only Mr. Lee's problem, but many people get older, ear problems become more common. But why do ears hurt, and what are the health risks behind this?
This pain is not without cause. The ear is a complex organ, and as we age, various factors can lead to ear health problems, and acute otitis media is one of them. It is usually caused by an infection and manifests as earache, hearing loss, and even fluid coming out of the ear. It sounds simple, but in reality, if left untreated, it can have long-term health effects.
Demystifying Acute Otitis Media: A Common but Not Ignorant Ear Health Threat
Acute otitis media, an inflammation of the ear, often occurs after a cold or upper respiratory tract infection. The ears are located on both sides of the head and are important organs for hearing and balance. The middle ear, located behind the eardrum, is an air-filled chamber that connects to the throat. When an infection occurs, the middle ear fills with inflammatory fluid, causing increased pressure and causing pain.
In acute otitis media, pain is the most prominent symptom and is usually accompanied by fever and hearing loss. According to statistics, otitis media is one of the leading causes of hearing loss. According to one study, more than 70% of people experience otitis media at least once in childhood, proving its prevalence. Although it is more common in children, middle-aged and older people are also susceptible to infection, especially if they have weakened immunity or chronic diseases.
The causes of otitis media are varied. The most common is a bacterial or viral infection, especially during flu season. Infection of the nasopharynx can spread to the middle ear through the eustachian tubes, causing inflammation. In addition, allergic reactions and sudden changes in air pressure (such as during flying or diving) can also trigger otitis media.
What is the problem with earache?
Acute otitis media, often overlooked, can cause severe discomfort. The most obvious sign is earache, which is different from normal ear itching or discomfort and is usually sudden, intense and persistent. Sometimes, it is even accompanied by a sensation of fluid flowing in the ear, or a temporary loss of hearing, especially at night or when chewing food.
Another sign that should not be ignored is an increase in secretions in the ear. At first, it may just feel like the inside of the ear is moist, but as the inflammation worsens, a yellow or bloody discharge may appear. This is because the inflammation caused by the infection causes the lining of the ear to rupture, and secretions come out.
Acute otitis media may also cause balance sensations, which can manifest as dizziness or a slight sense of imbalance. This is because the ears are not only responsible for hearing, but also for body balance.
It is important to understand the logic behind these symptoms. There is a structure inside the ear called the Eustachian tube, which is normally responsible for equalizing pressure inside and outside the ear. Inflammation occurs when this duct is affected by an infection, allergic reaction, or other factors, which in turn can lead to earache and other symptoms.
Beat acute otitis media with these treatments to help you regain clarity in the world!
Acute otitis media, a common ear disease, especially in middle-aged and elderly people, requires prompt treatment. In the beginning, earache may be mild discomfort, but without treatment, symptoms can quickly worsen and even lead to hearing loss. Therefore, it is wise to seek medical attention as soon as you experience ear pain, a feeling of congestion, or hearing loss.
First of all, drug therapy is the mainstay of acute otitis media. Antibiotics, as effective drugs for the treatment of bacterial infections, play an important role here. One study involving thousands of patients showed that appropriate use of antibiotics was effective in relieving symptoms in most cases. However, not all otitis media requires antibiotic treatment. The doctor will prescribe the appropriate medication on a case-by-case basis. In addition, painkillers such as ibuprofen can effectively reduce earache and improve patients' quality of life.
In some special cases, surgical treatment is also necessary. For example, if otitis media recurs frequently or lasts too long, a tympanotomy may be required. This procedure reduces pressure and pain by making a small infusion in the eardrum that drains the fluid that has accumulated. This procedure is a small procedure, but it can bring significant symptom relief.
In addition to medical treatment, daily care should not be neglected. Keep your ears dry and clean and avoid moisture entering your ear canals, especially when bathing or swimming. Also, avoid using cotton swabs or other items to pluck your ears to reduce potential damage to your ear canal.
