Ear Infection
What causes ear infections?
Viral or bacterial infections are usually responsible for ear infections. If you have an ear infection, the tissue in your ear may swell up. Your ears might also fill with fluid. Swollen, inflamed tissue often triggers severe pain, hearing problems, and dizziness.
Most earaches clear up on their own within a few days. But if a bacterial infection causes your pain, you may need antibiotics. These medications help destroy the infection so you can feel better.
Some people are especially prone to ear infections and get several each year. If you have recurring infections, Beach Cities ENTS can help you develop a treatment plan.
Why do I seem to have recurring ear infections?
Structural problems in the ear can cause frequent infections. If you often get ear infections, your ears may have trouble removing excess fluid. The longer the fluid stays in your ears, the more likely it is to become infected.
There is also a link between ear infections and problems with eustachian tubes. Your eustachian tubes are narrow passages that connect your ears to your nose and throat.
If these tubes are too scarred, swollen or immature, they can easily become blocked. Over time, these blockages increase your risk of infections.
At Beach Cities ENTS, you work with a board-certified physician to get to the root of your ear infection cause. The Beach Cities ENTS team helps you find long-lasting solutions.
How are ear infections treated?
If this is your first ear infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. They might also wait to see if the infection clears on its own. If you have recurring infections, you may need surgery.
A variety of surgical procedures can help clear up the infections. Your Beach Cities ENTS surgeon may suggest:
Eustachian tube balloonplasty
Myringotomy and tube placement
These procedures can help drain the infected fluid from your ears to clear up your infection. These surgeries relieve pressure in your ear and keep the passages open.
Children who have recurring infections sometimes benefit from ear tubes. Ear tubes are simple temporary implants placed within the eardrum to release pressure and prevent fluid accumulation. The tubes usually fall out on their own after surgery.
Most children eventually outgrow their need for ear tubes. However, in some cases, your child's ear tubes may need to be replaced or resized as they get older.
Not sure which ear infection procedure is right for you? A Beach Cities ENTS doctor can perform an expert evaluation and help you develop a personalized care plan. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online.