INTRODUCTION TO EAR INFECTIONS

Hermina's friends, ear infections are a common health problem in various age groups, especially children. Although often not serious, ear infections can cause significant discomfort and require medical attention. In this article, we'll explain what you need to know about ear infections, their symptoms, and how to manage and prevent them.

What Is an Ear Infection?

Ear infection is a condition where the ear becomes inflamed or infected, which can be caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi. There are three main types of ear infections:

1. External Ear Infection (Otitis Externa): This infection occurs on the outside of the ear, in the skin of the ear canal. Usually caused by excessive moisture or damage to the protective layer of skin in the ear. External ear infections can be very itchy and painful.
2. Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media): This infection occurs between the eardrum (tuba auditiva) and the middle ear canal. Otitis media often occurs in children and can be caused by viral or bacterial infections. Symptoms include pain, fever, and hearing loss.
3. Inner Ear Infection (Otitis Interna): This infection involves the inside of the ear, including the cochlea and vestibular. Otitis interna can cause balance disorders, nausea, vomiting, and various hearing problems.

Ear Infection Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of ear infections can vary depending on the type, but some common symptoms to look for include:

• Sharp or persistent ear pain
•  Fever, especially in children.
• Hearing loss or feeling of fullness in the ears.
• Discharge of fluid or pus from the ear (in middle ear infections).
• Itching or redness around the ear (in external ear infections).
• Balance disorders (in inner ear infections).

How to Treat Ear Infections?

It is important to remember that before undertaking treatment, you should consult with a medical professional to obtain a proper diagnosis. Untreated ear infections can lead to more serious complications.

1.  External Ear Infection (Otitis Externa) Usually treated with ear drops containing antibiotics and corticosteroids. Make sure to keep your ears dry and avoid putting foreign objects in them.
2. Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media): Treatment may involve antibiotics if caused by bacteria. If the symptoms are severe, the doctor may prescribe analgesics or painkillers to reduce pain.
3. Inner Ear Infection (Otitis Interna): Usually requires further medical treatment, such as intravenous antibiotics. Consult a doctor immediately if you suspect an inner ear infection.

Prevention is also very important. Make sure you or your child maintain good ear hygiene and avoid cleaning them too often with cotton buds, because this can damage the skin inside the ear.

Ear Infection Prevention

Some steps you can take to prevent ear infections include:

1. Keep Ears Clean: Clean the outer ear gently  using cotton wool dampened with water, and avoid inserting objects into the ear.
2. Avoid Excessive Moisture: Make sure your ears stay dry after swimming or showering. Use earplugs if necessary.
3. Vaccinations: Make sure your children get regular vaccinations, as some infections such as flu can cause otitis media.
4. Control Respiratory Tract Infections: Untreated respiratory infections can spread to the middle ear, so it is important to treat them well.
5. Avoid Smoking: Exposure to cigarette smoke can increase the risk of ear infections in children.

So Friends of Hermina, Prevention is the key to avoiding ear infections, so make sure to keep your ears clean, Friends of Hermina, avoid excessive humidity, and pay attention to vaccinations and respiratory tract health. With proper care and good prevention, Hermina's Friends can help keep ears healthy and free from infection. Don't hesitate to consult an ENT specialist if you have further questions or feel you are experiencing symptoms of an ear infection.