Ear Infection

External & Middle Ear Infections

While the ear is made of three parts, the inner, middle, and outer ear, infections are most common in the middle and outer parts. Swimmer's ear, medically known as Otitis Externa, is an infection of the inner and outer ear. Otitis Externa causes ear pain, discharge, headaches and temporary changes in hearing. It is most often treated by removing debris from the ear canal and the application of antibiotic ear drops. Otitis media is the medical term for middle ear infections. These are most common in children between the ages of 4 months and 5 years. The infections frequently occur when a cold or Eustachian tube dysfunction allows a bacterial infection. Symptoms include ear pain, fevers, headaches, dizziness, and irritability. Treatment most often includes antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications. Children who suffer from recurrent infections may need surgery to place a pressure equalization tube.

External Ear Infection Treatments

• Ear Drops
• Debridement of ear in Office

Middle Ear Infection Treatments

• Antibiotics
• Surgeries

Ear Infection Q & A

What causes ear infections?

During the course of their lives, most people will experience an ear infection. Most often, these infections are the result of a bacterial or viral infection in the middle ear. That is the space directly behind the eardrum, where tiny bones vibrate as part of the process of interpreting sensory auditory information. Many ear infections will clear up on their own, but there are cases in which sufferers should seek medical attention. When ear infections are reoccurring, lead to significant pain, or when fluid is retained in the middle ear, it is time to look for professional treatment options.

Are alternative therapies effective for treating ear infections?

Some people are able to achieve relief from ear infections using a number of alternative therapies. There is a wide range of options available, with varying degrees of effectiveness. Homeopathy is one popular approach, although research is inconclusive about the efficacy of homeopathic treatments. Probiotics are commonly used to increase the number of beneficial bacteria within the body, and many people swear by probiotic therapy to help prevent ear infection. Others turn to chiropractic services to reduce the occurrence of ear infections. While these approaches may be beneficial to some patients, many people eventually turn to Los Angeles Center for Ear, Nose, Throat and Allergy for solutions to recurring ear infections.

What are the treatment options for middle ear infections?

The most important component of addressing middle ear infections involves obtaining a proper diagnosis. If the infection is caused by a virus, then the course of treatment focuses on alleviating the symptoms associated with the infection. For most patients, over-the-counter pain medication can provide relief until the infection clears up. For bacterial infections, antibiotic treatment is sometimes necessary. While antibiotics are not appropriate for every ear infection, it is important to address serious infections before significant damage is done. The surgical placement of ear tubes is another treatment option, although not everyone is a good candidate for this approach. For young children who suffer from occurring middle ear infections, the surgical removal of adenoids is sometimes the best path to lasting relief.