The middle ear is the air-filled space located between your eardrum and inner ear. Middle ear infection, also called otitis media, occurs because of an infection caused by viruses or bacteria. It is prevalent in children but may occur in adults as well. Doctors of the best ENT hospital in Dumdum point out the causes and signs of middle ear infection.
Middle ear
The middle ear comprises three bones which are small in size known as the hammer, anvil and stirrup respectively. The three bones are kept away from the outer ear by the ear drum. A narrow path called the eustachian tube connects the back of the nose and upper section of the throat to the middle ear.
The role of eustachian tubes
The throat end of the eustachian tubes open and close in order to achieve the following:
- Balance air pressure in the middle ear.
- Refresh the air in the ear.
- Drain secretions from the middle ear.
In youngsters, the eustachian tubes are more narrow and horizontal, which makes them difficult to drain and easy to get clogged.
The best ENT surgeon in Dumdum is highly trained and specialises in treating a variety of disorders related to your ears.
Symptoms of middle ear infection
The signs of middle ear infection include the following:
- Ear pain or discomfort that turns severe and worsens when chewing or lying down.
- The feeling of pressure or fullness in the ear.
- Losing the ability to hear or muffled hearing.
- A ringing in the ear (tinnitus).
- Drainage of fluid from the ear.
- Fever
- Dizziness or loss of balance.
- Headache
- Sleeping disorders or waking up frequently during the night.
- If you observe that your child is pulling or tugging their ears.
Causes of middle ear infection
The causes of middle ear infections include the following:
- Viruses or bacteria originating from an upper respiratory infection or cold may spread to the middle ear via the eustachian tube.
- Swelling and congestion in the eustachian tube, which may be caused by allergies, prevent complete drainage of fluid from the middle ear.
- When adenoids become enlarged, they can block the eustachian tube and trap fluid in the middle ear.
- Exposure to smoke or environmental pollutants may lead to an infection as it irritates the eustachian tube.
Conclusion
Infections usually go away on their own but if neglected, they may lead to severe complications like hearing loss. In case the above signs have been identified it is better to discuss with specialists at the best ENT hospital in Dumdum regarding your treatment.