Ear Problem

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Description


Introduction

Ear problems are often caused by an infection.An ear infection occurs when a bacterial or viral infection affects the middle ear — the sections of your ear just behind the eardrum. Ear infections can be painful because of inflammation and fluid build-up in the middle ear.


Causes

An ear infection occurs when one of your Eustachian tubes becomes swollen or blocked, causing fluid to build up in your middle ear. Eustachian tubes are small tubes that run from each ear directly to the back of the throat. The causes of Eustachian tube blockage include:


Allergies.

Colds.

Sinus infections.

Excess mucus.

Smoking.

Infected or swollen adenoids (tissue near your tonsils that trap harmful bacteria and viruses).

Changes in air pressure.


Symptoms:

A few of the common symptoms of ear infections include:


mild pain or discomfort inside the ear

a feeling of pressure inside the ear that persists

fussiness in young infants

pus-like ear drainage

hearing loss


These symptoms might persist or come and go. Symptoms may occur in one or both ears. Pain is usually more severe with double ear infection (infection in both ears). Chronic ear infection symptoms may be less noticeable than those of acute ear infections.


Children younger than 6 months who have a fever or ear infection symptoms should see a doctor. Always seek medical attention if your child has a fever higher than 102°F or severe ear pain.