During
our childhood days, we often experienced ear pain. Excruciating pain takes over
sleepless nights. Our mothers applied heated oil ear drops to give the
much-needed relief.
Ear
infections affect children and adults. The ear is a sensitive organ that
detects and analyzes sounds. Untreated, they can result in hearing loss. Ears
help balance the body, and any form of infection compromises this ability.
Let us
know more about ear infections.
Causes
Ear
infections are caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae
bacteria, as well as cold-causing viruses. Fluid build-up beyond the eardrum is
a matter of concern. Due to colds and allergies, the eustachian tube becomes
infected and swollen. Swelling leads to the formation of mucus, which in turn
leads to infection.
The
causes are manifold. A Water accumulation inside a swimmer’s ear may infect it.
Cleaning the inside of an ear using any sharp object can also cause permanent
rupture of the eardrum m. and infection build-up.
We often
encounter roadside ear cleaners. Although they claim to be professionals, the
tools they use are germ-infested. Germs can spread from one person to the
other. Extracting excess ear wax with tinted tools can cause severe damage to
the ear. Tools not used with care can lead to a rupture in eardrums.
Symptoms
Children
are more prone to ear infections. Some encounter severe pain along the ear down
the jas. Trouble in hearing, headache, and drainage of fluid from the ear are
some of the symptoms. The symptoms may last for a while. Children experience
difficulty in language and physical development due to chronic ear infections.
Left untreated, an ear infection results in permanent hearing loss.
Care
The
eardrum is a sensitive organ that needs the utmost care, especially while
cleaning. Ear wax formation is typical. Retrieving the ear wax and inserting
pointed objects will cause trouble. An ENT specialist can remove the wax as
needed.
Medication
and antibiotics help relieve pain. Doctors also suggest warm or cold presses.
Chewing is one way to relieve pain.
While
swimming, one must ensure that they wear a swim cap. It will help prevent water
from entering the ear.
Streptococcus
pneumonia is a common cause of ear infections. Taking the pneumococcal vaccine
can protect against middle ear infections.
A quick
remedy from social media should be avoided.
The
outlook
The ear,
being a hearing organ, needs the utmost care. However, many people tend to
forget its sensitivity. While caring for it
Awareness
holds the key. Children should be aware of ear infections and not insert
pointed objects into them. Self-therapy on the ears will cause pain and
distress.
Visiting a medical professional to eliminate
infection will be a good idea.
