Infection can affect the ear canal (otitis externa), the eardrum, or the middle ear (otitis media). Most ear injuries are caused by pressure changes during direct injury (such as a blow to the ear) or sport scuba diving, but, a persistently painful ear may signal an infection that requires treatment. Because an ear scope (otoscope) may not be available to examine the canal and inner ear in remote locations, starting therapy may be appropriate until a doctor can be reached.
![Ear Infection]( "Ear Infection")
- Ear Infection
Ear Infection Symptoms
* Symptoms of ear infection include:
o ear pain,
o fullness in the ear,
o hearing loss,
o ringing,
o discharge from the ear,
o nausea,
o vomiting , and
o vertigo.
* Symptoms may follow a respiratory infection such as the common cold.
* Discharge from the ear canal is often caused by the infection known as swimmer’s ear (otitis externa). A painful ear with decreased hearing is often the result of otitis media, an middle ear infection.
Ear Infection Treatment
* Rest: avoid further scuba dives, coughing, sneezing, bending, and attempts to equalize the ears.
* Pain may be relieved with 1-2 acetaminophen (Tylenol) every four hours and/or 1-2 ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) every 6-8 hours.
* Pseudoephedrine (the active ingredient in over-the-counter medications such as Sudafed) 30 mg tablets, one every six hours for 2-3 days, may ease ear pressure. (People with a history of high blood pressure should avoid this product.)
* For infections of the ear canal (otitis externa): neomycin (Ak-Spore HC, Cortisporin, Neotricin HC, Ocutricin-HC), polymyxin B, and hydrocortisone (Cortisporin, Otocort, Poly Otic), two drops in the ear canal four times per day for five days, may also be used.
* If pain occurs, discontinue treatment and seek medical attention.
* Oral antibiotics are usually recommended for discharge from the ear, nose, or mouth. If infection develops, continue antibiotics for at least five days after all signs of infection have cleared. Tell your doctor of any drug allergy prior to starting any antibiotic. The doctor will recommend the right antibiotic. Some can cause sensitivity to the sun, so use a sunscreen (at least SPF 15).
When to Seek Medical Care
* Seek medical treatment as soon as possible for an examination of the ear if an ear infection is suspected.
* Elderly people and people with high blood pressure should use decongestants with caution.
* Consult a doctor about treatment with available medications for an ear infection.
