Treatment of otitis in adults. Effective treatment of otitis media

Otitis (or ear inflammation) is a fairly common disease. It is divided into types depending on the localization of the inflammatory process in the sections of the ear canal. There are many reasons for the development of the disease, and they determine the methods of treatment. Therapy should be comprehensive and competent, which will avoid negative consequences for the hearing organs.

Ear structure

The human ear has a very complex structure, which can be divided into three sections - the outer, middle and inner ear. The outer ear is the pinna, which receives sound waves, directing them into the external auditory canal. The outer and middle ears are separated by the eardrum, which is conventionally a hymen or membrane.

The middle ear is a cavity, a space in the temporal bone with three hearing bones located in it - the hammer, incus and stapes. It should be noted that the middle ear is closely connected to the nasopharynx. Functionally, the bones amplify the received sound vibrations and transmit them to the inner ear. The inner ear is a labyrinth of membranes in the stony part of the temporal bone with many bends filled with fluid. Vibrations coming from the middle ear are transmitted to the fluid, which already affects the receptors. This is how information is transmitted to the brain in the form of nerve impulses.

Classification of otitis

The classification of otitis media is considered not only on the basis of the localization of the inflammatory process, but also according to the nature of the course:

• acute otitis;
• subacute;
• chronic.

Distinctive features:

• acute otitis lasts a maximum of 3 weeks;
• subacute type of the disease in question – maximum 3 months;
• chronic otitis – over 3 months.

They also distinguish between the infectious and non-infectious nature of the inflammatory process in the ears - non-infectious, in turn, may include allergic and traumatic otitis. Separately, doctors consider types of inflammation:

• catarrhal type - otitis media occurs without any discharge;
• exudative - discharge from the ear may be bloody or appear as an effusion;
• purulent otitis - purulent contents are discharged from the ear.

Concept, types of otitis. Causes

Otitis media is a disease that can develop in any of the three parts of the ear; accordingly, depending on the place where the inflammatory process occurs, they are distinguished:

1. Otitis externa.
2. Otitis media.
3. Inflammation of the inner ear (or labyrinthitis).

There are many reasons that contribute to the onset of the disease or aggravate its course, but the main ones include:

• diseases of the nasopharynx, leading to swelling and inflammation of the mucous membranes of the middle ear;
• diseases that suppress and weaken the immune system (flu, measles);
• hypothermia;
• cold water getting into the ear;
• injuries and various damage to the eardrum, which can lead to infection in the middle ear cavity;
• genetic predisposition.

Based on the nature of the pathogen that causes the disease, otitis media is divided into:

1. Viral.
2. Bacterial.
3. Fungal.

Let's take a closer look at the inflammatory processes that occur in each of the three parts of the human ear, the symptoms and possible complications of otitis media.

Treatment of acute otitis with folk remedies

1. Aloe juice. You need to drop a few drops of aloe into your ear. This remedy helps well if there is “shooting” in the ear. Repeat the procedure 2-3 times, the pain will disappear.
2. Angelica juice. To relieve pain, it is recommended to instill 2-3 drops of juice from the root of angelica officinalis into the ear canal. The juice must be freshly squeezed.
3. Onion juice. If your ears are cold and they hurt, onion juice will help. Take some onions (small pieces) and wrap them in cotton wool. Insert the resulting tampons not deep into your ears. The pain will soon subside, and the nasopharynx will clear. Or take onion juice, half diluted with water, and bury it in the ear 2-3 times a day, applying a warm compress on top.
4. Sea buckthorn oil. Take an eggplant and cut out the core. Then pour sea buckthorn oil into it, cover the hole with an eggplant “hat” and bake in the oven. After this, squeeze out the oil and drop a few warm drops into the sore ear. The pain stops immediately.
5. Camphor compress. It helps well with inflammation of the middle ear, nasopharynx, and also with ear pain. Take cotton swabs and soak them in camphor oil. Then bandage it to the sore ear and put a woolen hat on your head to keep the ear warm. It is recommended to do this compress at night.
6. Camomile tea. A warm compress of chamomile infusion is an effective remedy for otitis media. To prepare the infusion you will need:
   • dry crushed chamomile herb - 1 tsp.

   boiling water - 200 ml.

Pour boiling water over chamomile and leave to steep for one hour, then strain. Take a cotton swab, soak it in the resulting infusion and insert it into the sore ear. The procedure is performed 2-3 times a day. If you feel relief, do not stop making the compress for a few more days to consolidate the result. If the compress does not help, consult a doctor immediately.

Otitis externa. Classification. Symptoms

Otitis externa is an inflammation of the skin of the auricle along with the external auditory canal, which is caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. There are two types of external otitis: limited and diffuse.

In most cases, limited inflammation is represented by furunculosis - the formation of boils. A furuncle is an acute purulent process of a sebaceous gland or hair follicle caused by pyogenic bacteria. In the presence of favorable factors in the human body, including chronic infection, diabetes mellitus, local injuries and skin contamination, insect bites, staphylococcal microflora begins to actively provoke the inflammatory process.

Sometimes the disease is a complication of a previous flu or can be caused by an allergic reaction to medications. Signs of external otitis include itching; pain that occurs when touching the inflamed area of ​​the ear; redness and swelling of the skin of the external auditory canal, or pinna; Sometimes your body temperature may rise. Hearing, as a rule, is not affected.

Generalized otitis externa is an inflammation of the outer ear, which can often spread to the eardrum.

Based on the duration of the disease, otitis externa is classified into acute and chronic. The latter is a consequence of the lack of treatment or incorrect treatment of the acute form of the disease.

Otitis of the external ear is considered the mildest type of the disease in comparison with otitis media and otitis internal and often does not lead to serious complications, although it can sometimes cause enlargement of the nodes of the lymphatic system. Inflammation of the mucous membrane develops into a malignant form (tissue necrosis) if a person has concomitant severe functional diseases (diabetes) or the immunodeficiency virus. But such cases, fortunately, are rare.

Reasons for appearance

The disease occurs as a result of another disease with hematogenous transmission of infection. It most often manifests itself against the background of influenza and acute respiratory infections. A general decrease in immunity leads to the spread of pathogenic microbes in the human body:

• staphylococcus;
• streptococcus;
• Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

From a distant source, the infection can reach the hearing organs. If the membrane is damaged, infection may occur from an external source. Pressure changes associated with professional work, dampness, and hypothermia cause pathological changes in the ear.

Causes of otitis media:

1. Spread of infection through blood.
2. Cracks in the eardrum.
3. Working conditions that cause pressure surges.

Damage to the middle ear is usually associated with an acute respiratory infection. Microorganisms migrate from the nasopharynx to the middle ear along the surface of the auditory tube.

Otitis media Classification and symptoms

Of all forms of otitis media, inflammation of the middle ear is the most common in both children and adults. As noted earlier, the nature of the disease can be bacterial or viral. Among bacteria, the main pathogens are streptococci or Haemophilus influenzae. Viruses that cause inflammation include rhinovirus, influenza virus, or respiratory syncytial virus.

The first signs of inflammation of the middle ear are throbbing, shooting or aching pain in the organ, which intensifies when swallowing, sneezing or coughing. This disease is also characterized by noise in the ear, weakness, sleep disturbance, lack of appetite, and a sharp deterioration in hearing.

Basically, inflammation of the middle ear is the result of a previous runny nose or flu, which causes a decrease in immunity and an increase in the number of bacteria in the nasal cavity. The nasal cavity is connected to the middle ear by the auditory tube, in which fluid and various microorganisms accumulate, provoking the onset of the inflammatory process. At the same time, the eardrum experiences pressure and expands outward, which is why pain appears.

The course of the disease can vary in speed of development, as well as in duration, according to which they distinguish:

1. Acute otitis media (fluid accumulates in the ear). This is the reason why you hear your own voice in your head.
2. Chronic otitis media (ear filled with pus).

Acute otitis media

According to statistics, acute forms of otitis media account for 30% of the total number of ENT diseases. Most often it occurs in preschool children.

Symptoms of acute otitis media

The disease is characterized by an acute onset with the appearance of the following symptoms:

• earache;
• ear congestion or hearing loss;
• increased body temperature;
• anxiety;
• disturbance of appetite, sleep;
• headache and toothache.

Causes of development of acute otitis media

In most cases, the disease can be caused by various pathogenic microorganisms - viruses, microbes, fungi, etc. In exudate obtained from the middle ear, respiratory viruses are found in 30-50% of cases. The most common causes of otitis are parainfluenza viruses , influenza viruses, rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, enteroviruses, respiratory syncytial viruses, etc.

In 50-70% of patients with acute otitis media, bacteria are detected in the exudate from the middle ear (most often Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis).

Often the cause of otitis is a mixed (viral-bacterial) infection.

When making a diagnosis, a differential diagnosis is made with myringitis (inflammation of the eardrum) and exudative otitis media.

The occurrence of otitis media is directly related to the condition of the nose and nasopharynx: rhinitis and tonsillitis often provoke inflammation of the middle ear.

Otitis often occurs against the background of decreased immunity and immunodeficiency states.

Routes of infection

The most common route of infection into the middle ear is through the auditory tube during rhinitis and sinusitis.

It is possible that infection can penetrate through the blood during influenza, scarlet fever and other infectious diseases.

In rare cases, the infection enters the middle ear through the ear canal due to injury (rupture) of the eardrum.

Stages of acute otitis

There are 5 stages of the disease:

• stage of acute eustachitis: feeling of congestion, noise in the ear, normal body temperature (if there is an infection, it may increase);
• stage of acute catarrhal inflammation in the middle ear: sharp pain in the ear, low-grade fever, inflammation of the mucous membrane of the middle ear, increasing noise and congestion in the ear;
• pre-perforative stage of acute purulent inflammation in the middle ear: sharp unbearable pain in the ear, which radiates to the eye, teeth, neck, pharynx, increased noise in the ear and decreased hearing, increased body temperature to 38-39 degrees, the blood picture becomes inflammatory in nature;
• post-perforation stage of acute purulent inflammation in the middle ear: pain in the ear becomes weaker, suppuration appears from the ear, noise in the ear and hearing loss do not go away, body temperature becomes normal;
• reparative stage : inflammation is stopped, perforation is closed with a scar.

Acute otitis. Forms

If we classify the inflammatory process according to the nature of the course (clinical picture), then otitis media can be catarrhal or purulent, thus the development of the disease undergoes three stages - acute catarrhal otitis media, acute purulent otitis media and the recovery stage.

Acute catarrhal otitis is an inflammatory process associated with the localization of fluid in the middle ear cavity. In addition to pain and elevated body temperature (38-39 °C), this form of the disease is characterized by redness and swelling of the eardrum, and ear congestion. Patients note that they hear their own voice in their heads when talking.

The appearance of foci of pus and its accumulation in the middle ear cavity is acute purulent otitis. Treatment is not carried out for the first 2-3 days, because usually during this period the eardrum ruptures and pus comes out. At the same time, the patient feels better, the body temperature returns to normal, and the pain stops. In addition to pus, bloody and serous discharge may be observed. If the course of the disease passes without complications, then the third stage begins - recovery.

With the beginning of the recovery stage, the inflammatory process decreases, suppuration stops and the damaged membrane gradually tightens. If treatment of otitis in adults is carried out in accordance with prescriptions and under the supervision of a specialist, then recovery occurs in 2-3 weeks. By this time, hearing is usually completely restored.

Symptoms of otitis media

The main signs of otitis media that you should pay attention to are:

• noise in ears;
• hearing loss;
• pain;
• itching

In acute catarrhal otitis, there are complaints of severe pain in the ear. The condition of infants is accompanied by fever, nausea, and vomiting. The temperature during otitis media can reach 40 degrees.

Acute purulent otitis media increases gradually. Pain sensations radiate to the temple and teeth. The accumulated fluid inside the ear cavity begins to rot, and the membrane fills with blood. During otitis media, pus begins to come out, compromising the integrity of the latter. Chronic otitis is characterized by its constant perforation.

During an exacerbation, the mastoid process has a reactive response, this is accompanied by swelling and pain in the area of ​​its base. Untreated acute otitis media causes mastoiditis. The clinical picture is noticeable one and a half to two weeks after the onset of the disease. As the layers of the appendix disintegrate, a postauricular abscess forms. Redness, swelling appears, and the ear sinks. The pain worsens, becomes persistent and throbbing. Fever and copious discharge from the canal into the outer ear occur.

Otitis externa is often observed in infants under one year of age. If a child sleeps poorly, turns his head, cries, or refuses to breastfeed, parents should contact a pediatric otolaryngologist. Quite often, children develop bilateral otitis media due to decreased immunity.

In old age, otitis media is observed less frequently, the symptoms are less pronounced, and the temperature is moderate to 38 degrees. The condition of patients is usually satisfactory. On the membrane, hyperemia is practically not observed due to the natural compaction that accompanies old age.

Cholesteatoma is diagnosed by otoscopy by the presence of white debris in the middle ear. It is important to differentiate a tumor from ear polyps.

Treatment of diseases of the inner ear includes labyrinthectomy (drainage of the inner part of the ear), antibiotic therapy according to the treatment regimen for meningitis.

Chronic otitis media. Stages

If treatment is untimely or insufficient, acute otitis media progresses to its chronic stage. Chronic otitis media is an inflammatory process characterized by constant or periodically recurring suppuration from the ear. This type of otitis, in addition to the already known symptoms, such as increased body temperature, itching, deterioration of general condition, is characterized by complications in the form of hearing loss and persistent perforation of the eardrum. Typically, the chronic course of the disease is a consequence of previous sinusitis or acute purulent otitis. In some cases, this form of otitis occurs as a result of a rupture (or perforation) of the eardrum or a deviated nasal septum after an injury. Depending on the location of the perforation, as well as its size, three stages of chronic otitis are distinguished:

1. Tubotympanic otitis (mesotympanitis).
2. Epimesotympanitis.
3. Epitympanitis.

In the tubotympanic form of otitis, a violation of the tympanic membrane occurs, as a rule, in the central part, and the pathology is manifested by inflammation of the mucous membranes of the tympanic cavity. Inflammation does not affect bone tissue.

Epimesotympanitis is a stage of chronic otitis, during which extensive perforation of the eardrum occurs, damage affecting its upper and middle sections.

The epitympanoantral form of otitis is characterized by rupture of the upper, most pliable and fragile areas of the membrane. This stage of the disease, as well as epimesotympanitis, is dangerous due to the occurrence of pathological processes associated with the formation of granulomas, polyps and cholesteatoma - a capsule filled and surrounded by purulent particles of the epidermis, which, constantly growing, puts pressure on the eardrum, destroys the bone component of the middle ear and opens the " way" to the purulent process in the inner ear.

In addition, there is another form of the inflammatory process - bilateral otitis - a disease that simultaneously affects the hearing organ on both sides.

If we consider the existing complications of the disease, then perforation of the eardrum is the most common. With prolonged accumulation of pus, pressure in the middle ear increases, causing the membrane to become thinner. There is a risk of its rupture (perforation). To prevent the transition of the inflammatory process to the stage of internal otitis and to avoid the subsequent development of serious pathologies, you should resort to puncturing the eardrum surgically, rather than waiting for the moment when this happens spontaneously.

Prevention

Measures related to the prevention of otitis are especially important in infancy, since it is children who are most susceptible to relapses of acute otitis and its transition to the chronic stage. Following simple rules will help avoid this:

• prevention of colds;
• hardening;
• improvement of immunity.

In childhood, the disease is caused by chronic adenoiditis, leading to pathology of the lining of the auditory canal. An operation is required to remove the pharyngeal tonsil with the removal of lymphoid tissue at the mouth of the tube and inside the fossa of Rosenmüller, in rare cases the central mass of adenoid tissue.

Sometimes it is useful to conduct an immunological study. If the allergen is identified, it should be excluded from the environment or immunotherapy should be performed.

Taking preventive measures during work associated with constant sharp changes in external pressure (for divers and pilots) plays a significant role. The process of equalizing pressure leads to stretching of the membrane, and sudden changes can cause it to rupture. Possible damage to blood vessels in the middle ear with internal hemorrhage. In such cases, regular professional medical examinations are mandatory. If the integrity of the membrane is compromised, it is recommended to use earplugs during work.

Inflammation of the inner ear. Symptoms

Internal otitis has another name - labyrinthitis - this is a disease that is less common in comparison with otitis of the external and middle ear, but is the most dangerous in terms of threat to human health and life. Purulent processes that affect bone tissue can cause serious complications, for example, meningitis (an inflammatory process in the membranes of the brain) or sepsis (blood poisoning due to pus entering it). As a rule, internal otitis is the result of complications of previous otitis media or the consequences of a severe infectious disease. High body temperature, severe headache and vomiting, loss of balance - all these are symptoms of internal otitis, for which it is necessary to seek help from a specialist as soon as possible. In addition, with such forms of the disease there is a sharp deterioration in hearing, up to its complete loss.

In order to make an accurate diagnosis and, as a result, prescribe the correct treatment regimen for the patient, doctors resort to otorhinolaryngological examination and laboratory tests.

Complications after otitis media

Complications of otitis media are related to the quality of the therapy provided and how quickly and correctly the disease was diagnosed. Mastoiditis, which occurs as a complication of acute purulent otitis media, can lead to thrombosis of the sigmoid sinus, intracranial abscesses and sepsis. These manifestations are characterized by severe clinical symptoms on their own.

A number of pathologies are not life-threatening, but can cause irreversible consequences, including hearing loss due to membrane rupture or damage to the facial nerve. Harbingers of complications are headache and chills.

At the first pain in the ear area or hearing loss, you should immediately consult a specialist. Treatment at an early stage of the disease will help avoid adverse consequences.

Sometimes there is ear congestion after otitis media. Normally, this goes away within a few days after treatment.

Diagnosis of otitis. Surveys and research

Laboratory diagnostics are carried out mainly to establish the nature of the origin of otitis media - bacteriological or virological. Using a serological reaction of blood serum and a polymerase chain reaction, antibodies to pathogens are detected. Also, the results of a general blood test will show the presence or absence of an inflammatory process in the body.

Basic instrumental methods for diagnosing otitis:

• Tympanocentesis is the examination of fluid obtained by surgically puncturing the membrane. The procedure allows you to determine the antibiotic necessary to fight a particular type of infection, but in practice it is not often used.
• Tympanometry - checking the mobility of the eardrum.
• Otoscopy is an examination of the eardrum and ear canal using an otoscope.
• Audiometry - determination of hearing acuity in cases of suspected hearing loss.
• Computed tomography of the brain and skull structure (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - are used for suspected purulent inflammatory processes and intracranial complications, help diagnose the formation of various pathologies - polyps, cholesteanoma, etc.

Diagnostics

The diagnosis of the disease is made on the basis of complaints and otoscopic images. The latter allows not only to differentiate subspecies, but also to determine the stage and severity of the ongoing process.

X-ray examination or computed tomography of the temporal bone plays an important role. This is important if the disease spreads to the mastoid process. It is fundamentally important to differentiate the diagnosis between acute otitis media and the return of chronic suppurative otitis media, since the latter continues completely asymptomatically.

Bacterial otitis is accompanied by a sudden sharp pain that can last 24 - 48 hours. Hearing loss and fever occur.

Conservative treatment of otitis in adults

To avoid the development of complications and achieve recovery with minimal waste of time and effort, otitis media must be treated in a timely manner, in fact, like any other disease. For each form of the inflammatory process, a special treatment method is provided, with its inherent procedures and medications.

Otitis of the external ear is treated on an outpatient basis, using drops that contain an antibiotic. Sometimes antibiotics may be prescribed along with corticosteroids or antihistamines if the illness is caused by an allergic reaction. There are also procedures for washing the ear canal with an antiseptic solution. If this therapy does not lead to recovery or is impossible due to severe swelling of the ear canal and facial cellulite, oral medications are prescribed. At elevated body temperatures, antipyretics are used, as well as analgesics if pain is present. In rare cases, when purulent inflammation of the tissues of the outer ear occurs, surgical intervention may be indicated.

Elimination of inflammation in the middle ear during the normal course of the disease takes place on an outpatient basis. Treatment of otitis in adults is carried out with the prescription of antibiotics, antiseptics and bed rest. To reduce pain, warm 96% alcohol is used as drops (in case of suppuration, this procedure is contraindicated). For local use, physiotherapy is prescribed, and it is also possible to use a blue lamp. A warming compress for otitis media (alcohol, vodka or camphor oil based) would also be useful, and should be kept for no more than 3-4 hours. It is also necessary to remember that you cannot apply a compress at elevated body temperature.

If, nevertheless, the disease does not proceed without complications, then the patient will show signs of acute otitis - purulent otitis will develop. Treatment can be continued with antibiotics or surgery.

Treatment

Depending on the diagnosis, the doctor prescribes appropriate treatment. For acute catarrh of the middle ear it is necessary:

1. Upper respiratory tract therapy.
2. Normalization of breathing through the nose.
3. Conducting therapy focused on improving the auditory tube. Injection of hydrocortisone suspension. If the ear cavity is filled with mucus, a proteolytic enzyme is administered. Prescribe antihistamines (diphenhydramine, diazolin, pipolfen). Antibiotics for otitis are prescribed in case of purulent complications. The latter includes Flemoxin Solutab, a drug from the group of semisynthetic penicillins.

Obstruction of the auditory tube in secretory otitis is associated with the formation of effusion, which can be caused by pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, when prescribing therapy, antibiotics are primarily used. This straightens the permeability of the auditory tube, and helps sterilize the middle ear.

Treatment of acute otitis media

Therapy for acute purulent inflammation of the middle ear includes:

• pain relief;
• dispersion of infiltrate;
• drainage of cavity contents;
• artificial rupture of the membrane;
• hearing restoration.

Before perforation, the specialist prescribes drug treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics. They resort to warm compresses. Otipax and Otinum ear drops help relieve pain. If crevice formations occur on the membrane, the drugs are discontinued.

If the condition does not improve, the doctor resorts to paracentesis (cut) of the membrane. The procedure promotes rapid recovery, but is very painful. It is carried out only in a hospital. Before the operation begins, the doctor administers a few drops of Otipax and uses special needles to pierce the eardrum. Purulent-bloody fluid under pressure comes out through the resulting cut. At the end of the operation, a sterile turunda is inserted into the ear, and the outer ear is sanitized several times a day with boric alcohol.

Treatment of acute chronic otitis

Treatment of acute purulent chronic otitis is divided into conservative and surgical, depending on the phase of the process. For this form of otitis, experts recommend using Miramistin as a complex treatment.

Chronic otitis media is curable with a 100% probability. Myringoplasty (elimination of a defect in the membrane) restores two main functions of the organ: sound protection for the round window and transmission of sound pressure to the oval window in the ear. If the ossicular chain is broken, it can be repaired with tympanoplasty.

Establishing the fact of cholesteatoma is an indication for surgical removal of the latter; its existence interferes with the restoration of the functions of the middle ear.

Antihistamines such as "Chlorpheniramine" relieve blockage of the auditory tube in patients with allergies; 4 mg of the drug after 4-6 hours alleviates the patient's condition as a whole.

To ventilate the middle ear, use the Valsalva maneuver or Politzer blowing with a rubber bulb.

It is difficult to distinguish a viral infection from a bacterial and mycoplasma infection, so antibiotic therapy is prescribed, as in acute otitis media. Pain caused by a viral infection is reduced by opening the bullae with a myringotomy knife or using an analgesic (Codeine).

Treatment of otitis media in children

For young children, pain from otitis media can be relieved with the help of special liquid medications that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Otipax drops for otitis media are prescribed for both adults and children under 1 year of age.

If the disease is at an early stage, pediatricians advise using boric alcohol as a treatment for otitis media. 1-2 drops of the solution are poured into the child’s ear canal, sealed with a cotton swab and left for several hours. It is also useful to warm the ear. For a warming compress, use only dry heat.

Ear drops: species diversity and rules of use

Before we tell you how to cure otitis media at home using pharmaceutical drops, let’s touch on the topic of their diversity:

1. Antibacterial drops stop the inflammatory process by killing bacteria directly in the tissues of the auditory organ affected by them. To increase the effectiveness of therapy and avoid unpleasant relapses, such drugs are used according to the classical scheme: a few drops are instilled into the ear 2 times a day at equal time intervals for 5, 7 or 10 days. For example, Tsipromed, Otofa, Normax.
2. Anti-inflammatory drops come in two types: non-steroidal and steroidal. The first drugs will relieve swelling, relieve pain, accelerate metabolic processes in tissues, which will prevent inflammatory mediators from developing. Steroids will eliminate swelling and pain, but will additionally have an antihistamine effect.
3. Combined drops combine the properties of the two types of drops described above. They will eliminate pathogenic flora, speed up metabolic processes, and relieve swelling and pain in the affected tissues. For example, Sofradex, Anauran, Candibiotic.

It is important to know not only what drops are used to treat otitis media, but also how these drops should be used in practice so as not to harm the patient. Let us describe the basic rules for using ear drops:

• when instilling funds, it is important to wash your hands thoroughly;
• Do not use hot or cold drops, but only liquid at room temperature to avoid burns, acute pain and dizziness;
• apply drops while lying on your side, when the sore ear is on top;
• the auricle is slightly pulled back so that the liquid gets clearly into the ear canal, after which you need to press the tragus with your finger several times;
• At the end of the procedure, the ear should be covered with a cotton swab for 15 minutes.

As practice shows, drug therapy should be combined with treatment of ear inflammation at home using folk remedies. The variety of folk remedies for otitis in adults and children is quite wide, but it is better to choose the current option together with your doctor.

Prevention in the treatment of otitis

The main goal of preventative measures to prevent ear inflammation is to prevent thick mucous from blocking the eustachian tube. It's quite difficult.

Usually, against the background of acute rhinitis, the appearance of liquid discharge is observed, but during therapy, the discharge often becomes thicker and stagnates in the nasopharynx.

• Under the influence of chronic infectious diseases - tonsillitis, pharyngitis, the risk of inflammation in the ear increases, so it is necessary to begin their treatment in a timely manner.
• After taking a shower or bath, as well as swimming in an open pond or pool, you need to carefully wipe your ears to prevent liquid with germs from entering inside. It is for patients with a tendency to ear inflammation that drops with an antiseptic effect are sold. They should be used for ear drops every time after bathing.
• You should systematically clean your ears from dirt and don’t forget about hygiene. However, the minimum amount of wax should not be removed, as this serves to protect the ear canal from the penetration of pathogens.

Otitis is an unpleasant pathology. You should not expect that the signs of the disease will disappear on their own. You should definitely seek medical help if the first signs of illness are detected.

Most often, a person treats ear inflammation with unjustified frivolity and does not imagine that such an infection is fraught with very dangerous and sad consequences.

To summarize: how to protect the body?

To prevent signs of otitis in adults from disturbing you, you need to follow simple rules. Swim carefully in unfamiliar bodies of water, use earplugs, and dry your ears after leaving the water. Maintain moderate hygiene and do not insert foreign objects into the ear canal.

Otitis media is a serious and dangerous disease. Ear inflammation in adults can lead to irreversible and dangerous processes. Start treatment when the first symptoms appear, follow all doctor's instructions and stay healthy.

How to diagnose otitis media?

A qualified specialist is able to immediately determine the stage of the disease without using any devices or innovative technologies. For this purpose, the doctor examines the auricle and ear canal, using a forehead reflector (a mirror with a hole in the center) or an otoscope to detect severe inflammation.

To confirm and clarify the diagnosed disease, the doctor may prescribe an additional laboratory blood test (clinical) to determine the presence of inflammatory symptoms (increased ESR level, increased leukocyte index, etc.)

In addition to a visual examination and laboratory tests, the doctor may prescribe instrumental techniques to clarify the diagnosis, namely: X-ray examination, CT scan of the temporal region on both sides.

Application of traditional medicine recipes

Treatment of otitis media localized in the middle ear involves the use of alternative methods of traditional medicine. But at the same time, they should not be elevated to the rank of a panacea, since their independent use will not eliminate the cause of this pathological process.

How additional funds can be used:

• Freshly squeezed juice from aloe leaves. A small cotton pad is moistened with it and placed in the ear canal for 20 or 30 minutes. It is recommended to perform the procedure 3 to 4 times during the day.
• Propolis. Pharmacy tincture in the form of a 20 percent solution can be used as ear drops (2 drops, 4 or 5 times a day).
• In the absence of high temperature, it is allowed to warm the sore ear with dry heat. To do this, heat table salt in a frying pan and transfer it to a cloth bag, which is applied to the ear.
• Calendula or chamomile tincture can be used as drops 5 to 8 times a day.

Symptoms and signs of the disease

Otitis media is an inflammatory disease with an acute onset and rapid progression of symptoms.

If your ear hurts, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Classic clinical picture:

• high temperature and fever;
• acute “shooting” pain in the ear;
• hearing loss, feeling of congestion;
• discharge from the external auditory canal.

Usually, with otitis media, nasal congestion and inflammation of the nasopharynx are observed. This is due to the structural features of the ENT organs, the work of which is closely interconnected. Otitis may be a consequence of inflammation of the maxillary sinuses or nasopharyngitis, but if it acts as an independent disease, it necessarily entails a general deterioration in well-being and the spread of the pathological process to nearby organs.

Complications caused by diseases

The consequences of ear diseases include:

• deafness;
• facial paralysis;
• the appearance of tumors;
• hearing loss;
• penetration of infection into the membrane of the brain;
• complication of ear pathologies;
• brain sepsis;
• meningitis.

Ignoring the symptoms of the disease can affect a person’s health, lifestyle, or lead to death. At the first symptoms of ear diseases, you should go to the doctor and not self-medicate.

What should you not do during treatment?

During the treatment of otitis media, the patient must adhere to medical recommendations:

• You should not arbitrarily select medications, determine the dose, or stop taking medications as soon as the signs of the disease disappear.
• If you act at your own discretion, without following the advice of a doctor, you can harm your health.
• Before seeking specialized help, you can only take Paracetamol tablets to relieve pain. This medicine is quite effective and has few contraindications. If you take this remedy correctly, in rare cases the development of negative reactions is observed.

Diagnosis and treatment of purulent otitis media

Identifying the disease is not difficult. The doctor is based on the patient's complaints. An otoscopy is performed: the ear cavity is examined using a special instrument. A bacterial culture of ear discharge is prescribed. If an etympanic form is suspected, an x-ray of the temporal bone is taken. The diagnosis is confirmed by a blood test; a sharp increase in the level of leukocytes is observed.

Treatment of an uncomplicated form of purulent otitis is carried out at home. At elevated temperatures, bed rest is indicated. In severe cases of the disease, the patient is admitted to a hospital.

Therapy depends on the complexity of the disease. So, in the pre-perforation stage, pain is first eliminated in order to alleviate the condition. For these purposes, drops with an analgesic effect are used, for example, Otipax, which contains lidocaine and phenazone, Anauran, containing lidocaine, polymyxin, neomycin. The drugs must be dripped several times a day. Vasoconstrictors are prescribed for the nose, for example, Galazolin, Otrivin, Sanorin, they improve drainage function. Parcetamol and Diclofenac are prescribed as painkillers. It is strictly forbidden to blow your nose or draw liquid into your nasopharynx.

At the perforated stage, antibiotics and antihistamines are added to the vasoconstrictors. If pus drips from the ear, mucolytic agents are prescribed (ACC, Fluimucil, Erespal). Additionally, physical therapy is prescribed: UHF, UV. The patient at home must treat the ear cavity himself: remove pus with a cotton swab. For thick discharge, warm hydrogen peroxide is first dripped into the ear, then the cavity is blotted with a dry cloth. After cleansing the ear canal, lukewarm drops prescribed by the doctor are instilled into the ear.

Antibiotics prescribed at this stage of purulent otitis: Amoxicillin is a broad-spectrum medicine, it cannot be used during pregnancy, lactation, or liver diseases; "Cefuroxime" - used intramuscularly, the contraindications are the same; “Azithromycin”, its advantage: prescribing one tablet per day, but it has more contraindications; "Cefazolin" - used in the form of injections, the drug cannot be used during pregnancy and intestinal diseases. At the same time, antibiotic drops are prescribed: Levomecitin, Norfloxacin. "Netelmicin".

All medications are prescribed by a doctor according to a specific regimen. It is prohibited to start taking antibiotics on your own. If the effectiveness of the drug is low or there are side effects, the doctor may adjust the treatment. The duration of antibacterial therapy is at least 7–10 days. Early cessation of use is prohibited in order to avoid relapse and transition of the disease to a chronic form.

In the perforated stage of purulent otitis, the drainage of fluid in the ear is sometimes impaired. Then on the fourth day the eardrum is dissected. This procedure is performed in a hospital setting to prevent complications. If the source of inflammation has spread to the bone, it is surgically removed.

During the reparative stage, a scar has already formed on the membrane, pus from the ear stops flowing, so they stop taking antibiotics and physiotherapy. For adhesions, pneumomassage of the eardrum is performed. Vitamin therapy is indicated. The main task: restore hearing, strengthen the immune system.

Treatment method for otitis externa

If a diagnosis of external otitis is established, then drug therapy occurs according to the following scheme:

• They use medications that eliminate pathogenic microflora. The following types of drugs are prescribed: Oxacillin. It affects bacteria, being effective against streptococcal and staphylococcal infections. Can be used in tablet forms or as intramuscular injections. The daily dose can be from 2 to 4 grams, depending on the severity of the inflammation process. It is taken at regular intervals, divided into 4 doses. Intramuscularly, the frequency of use is from 4 to 6 times per day with the introduction of 1 or 2 grams of the drug. The duration of treatment is determined by the doctor individually.
• Cefazolin. It is effective against bacterial and viral microflora. Usually prescribed in advanced stages of the disease. The drug is administered 2 times a day after 6 or 8 hours in an amount of 0.25 to 1 gram.
• Augmentin . A dosage form that provides a therapeutic effect due to 2 main ingredients. Amoxicillin suppresses bacterial microflora, Clavulanic acid eliminates the enzymatic activity of microorganisms. It can be used for both mild and severe otitis. It is recommended to take 1 or 2 tablets twice a day (0.7 g). It is important to maintain equal time intervals.

Augmentin

Oxacillin

Cefazolin

• A mixture of boric alcohol and glycerin. Used topically to relieve symptoms of inflammation. The liquid is applied to a cotton pad and then placed in the ear canal.

Boric acid

• To relieve high temperatures, antipyretics are used: Acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin).
• Paracetamol.

Acetylsalicylic acid

Paracetamol

• Drugs that provide an anti-inflammatory effect with a non-steroidal effect. Most often prescribed: Nurofen.
• Diclofenac.

Diclofenac

Nurofen

• The following is prescribed as ear drops: Garazon . Positive dynamics in the treatment of otitis media is achieved through 2 ingredients. Gentamicin suppresses bacterial microflora, Betamethasone relieves inflammation, as it is a synthetic derivative of the adrenal hormone. The ear instillation procedure is carried out 4 times a day with the introduction of 3 or 4 drops.
• Otinum. Cholim salicylate is the main active ingredient, which has a dual effect, relieves pain and destroys pathogens. To maintain the therapeutic effect, 3 to 4 drops are instilled throughout the day, three times a day.

Garazon

Otinum

• Physiotherapeutic procedures are used when the disease is not accompanied by high fever. Ultraviolet irradiation therapy is prescribed (the session lasts from 10 to 15 minutes), or the use of UHF currents (the procedure lasts from 8 to 15 minutes, for treatment it is necessary to undergo from 10 to 15 sessions).

Warming up the ear

Ears can become inflamed for various reasons. Otitis media is effectively treated using folk remedies at home. For example, procedures such as warming up demonstrate high effectiveness in fighting the disease. They help eliminate the infection by promoting the maturation of the abscess and reducing inflammation.

Important! Warming is contraindicated for people suffering from hypertension, as well as before perforation.

We will describe below effective methods of warming up for ear inflammation:

1. Oil heating. You will need to mix chamomile oil, lavender, tea tree and almond oil in equal proportions, heat the liquid in a water bath to 40 degrees and instill 2-3 drops into the ear canal 2 times a day. Treatment is carried out until the signs of the disease completely disappear, but no more than 4 days. It is especially indicated if the inner ear is inflamed.
2. Warming up with warm air. You will need to get a hairdryer and set it to the lowest power hot air drying mode. Direct the air flow from the device into the ear canal at a certain angle. Move the device itself away from the ear at a distance of 20 cm. The warming up procedure lasts no more than 3 minutes and is repeated twice a day. The duration of the course of therapy is 5 days.
3. Treatment of the ear at home is carried out by warming it with a hot, damp towel. The patient is placed with the affected ear on a cloth previously soaked in hot water and wrung out of excess liquid. If the towel cools down, immerse it in hot water again and wring it dry. You need to lie on a towel for about 15 minutes 3 times a day. The course of treatment is 5 days.
4. Warming up with rock salt. Heat coarse rock salt in a cast iron skillet, then place it in a cotton bag. To avoid burns, the bag is additionally wrapped in a thin towel, and only then applied to the ear. Such folk remedies for otitis media in adults and children are very effective, because salt can retain heat for quite a long time. The heating pad can be left on all night. During the day, hold the salt near the sore ear for 15 minutes 3 times for 5 days in a row.

Causes

Otitis is a multi-causal disease, where the main etiological factors are bacteria, fungi and viruses.

Moreover, the leading position is given to pathogenic bacterial flora. Thus, in acute purulent otitis, the main pathogens are pneumococci and Haemophilus influenzae, and somewhat less commonly, Staphylococcus aureus. In the chronic form of the disease, Klebsiella and Pseudomonas are also found.

Some predisposing factors also play a certain role in the development of otitis media.:

• Immunodeficiency conditions: congenital or acquired (AIDS, chemotherapy);
• endocrinological pathologies (diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism);
• systemic blood diseases (leukemia);
• dysfunction and narrowness of the eustachian tube;
• diseases of the upper respiratory tract (polyps, adenoids, sinusitis, deviated nasal septum, tonsillitis);
• abnormalities in the structure of the skull bones;
• iatrogenic factors;
• frequent acute respiratory viral infections and colds accompanied by acute runny nose;
• sensitization of the body (allergy, asthma, vasomotor rhinitis).

Possible complications

Any disease must be treated in time to avoid unpleasant consequences. Acute otitis media can be complicated by such consequences as:

• mastoiditis (inflammation of the mastoid process);
• sepsis;
• solestethoma (a complication that destroys the temporal bone).

The most dangerous consequences of otitis media:

• brain abscess;
• meningitis;
• labyrinthitis;
• facial nerve paresis;
• deafness.

Labyringitis

Contact your doctor at the first signs of otitis so that the disease does not develop into an irreversible pathology.

Otitis in pregnant women

Acute otitis in pregnant women proceeds according to the standard pattern - a sharp pain appears in the ear, and one gets the feeling that all the teeth hurt. The woman is worried about congestion in the ear canal, increased body temperature and general weakness. It is imperative to cure acute otitis media during pregnancy - this is a source of infection that is absolutely undesirable during pregnancy. But you absolutely cannot self-medicate:

• firstly, you need to know exactly which type of otitis is developing - infectious/non-infectious, purulent/medium, exudative/catarrhal;

• secondly, taking any medication, even the safest at first glance, must be agreed upon with an otolaryngologist and gynecologist;
• thirdly, some medications (drops in the ears) cannot be used at the moment of rupture of the eardrum - only a specialist can determine this fact.

Chronic otitis occurs during pregnancy somewhat differently:

• the woman feels constant weakness;
• There are complaints of increased drowsiness even after proper rest and headaches.

Treatment of a chronic type of inflammation in the ear should also be carried out under the supervision of doctors - those drugs that the patient used as therapeutic measures before conception may be contraindicated.

During pregnancy, it is important not to use cold and/or hot compresses when treating otitis media; you should avoid getting water into the problem ear. While carrying a child, treatment of otitis is prohibited even with folk remedies - any decision regarding therapeutic measures should be made only by a doctor.

Experts talk about preventive measures, types of otitis media and methods of effective treatment:

Tsygankova Yana Aleksandrovna, medical observer, therapist of the highest qualification category.

17, total, today

( 37 votes, average: 4.24 out of 5)

Related Posts

• Sleep apnea syndrome: what it is, causes, symptoms, treatment

• Epitympanitis: symptoms, treatment, prevention

Phases

Otitis media can be acute or chronic. The symptoms of these diseases are similar, but their intensity differs significantly.

Acute

1. The main symptom of acute otitis is severe pain in the ear. It can be twitching or shooting. Usually the discomfort increases in the evenings.
2. Another symptom of the disease is autophony, which is characterized by constant noise in the ear.
3. A person's hearing may deteriorate slightly.
4. Acute otitis is characterized by an increase in temperature and deterioration of the condition. If the anomaly is purulent in nature, the symptoms become more intense.
5. With this disorder, dizziness often occurs.
6. In addition, purulent otitis is accompanied by the accumulation of purulent contents, which can break through the membrane and spill out.

Chronic

This form of otitis has similar symptoms, but they are much less pronounced. Usually there is pain and more severe hearing loss. There is also a symptom of autophony and a feeling of fullness in the ears.

In the chronic form of purulent otitis, suppuration from the ear canal periodically appears. The person develops severe hearing loss and damage to the eardrum.

Methods for diagnosing ear diseases

To compile a complete picture of the disease, the following research methods are used:

1. Otoscopy is the examination of the ear canal and eardrum using a tube.
2. Ultrasound reveals the presence of ear tumors and a source of infection.
3. X-rays show the mixing and growth of bones.
4. Tests: biochemical blood test, test for otomycosis.
5. Tympanometry - measurement of ear canal volume and pressure.
6. CT scan.
7. Palpation.

Classification of disease types

Ear diseases, according to the nature of their course, can be:

• inflammatory;
• non-inflammatory;
• fungal;
• traumatic.

Non-inflammatory

Non-inflammatory diseases occur without the formation of pus and inflammation. Such diseases include otosclerosis of the ear, Meniere's disease and auditory neuritis.

Inflammatory

Inflammatory diseases are characterized by the presence of inflammation due to a viral or bacterial infection entering the ear cavity. Such diseases include otitis media, eustachitis, mastoiditis, and labyrinthitis.

Fungal

Otomycosis affects people who stay in humid and warm conditions for a long time, and those who work in rooms with high levels of dust or do not follow hygiene rules.

A fungal infection manifests itself in the initial stages with itching and pain, and then the appearance of pus. Symptoms include hearing problems and a feeling of pressure in the ear. Treatment may require the use of an antifungal medication or ear canal cleaner.

Traumatic lesions

Hearing problems can occur not only due to infections, but also due to increased pressure or mechanical damage. There are many types of ear injuries. These include barotrauma (injury due to changes in pressure in the ear), foreign body entry, head injury, and damage to the membrane by a cotton swab.

Treatment depends on the type of injury and its location. The most severe injuries are considered to be the middle and inner ear.

Dangerous complications

It is important to consult a doctor at the first symptoms of illness. Even a mild form of the disease in an advanced state can cause severe complications, including complete hearing loss or death.

How to treat otitis media at home

To begin treatment of otitis in adults, you need to recognize the disease. With this disease, pain appears, the ear begins to itch and shoot, and inflammation occurs. You should not self-medicate, but the manifestations of the symptoms of the disease must be immediately clearly noticed in order to provide yourself with first aid. Signs of the disease appear according to its type:

1. Outer. Characterized by pain in the hearing organs, itching in the ear area, purulent discharge and an unpleasant odor. Peeling, swelling and redness appear on the skin of the ear. In this case, the person hears normally.
2. The middle one is divided into two groups. Acute suppurative otitis media is characterized by pain inside the ear. The nature of the pain can be different: aching, stabbing, throbbing. It can be localized in the areas of the jaw, temple, and back of the head. In addition, there is an increase in body temperature. If too much pus accumulates inside the ear, the eardrum may perforate and release pus. The chronic form of the disease causes hearing impairment and leads to complications. Recognized due to the constant flow of pus.
3. Adhesive and allergic. With such inflammation, there is noise in the ears, a constant decrease in the level of hearing, headache, weakness, and the occurrence of adhesions.
4. Internal – a complication of the middle one. This type of illness is not accompanied by pain, hearing loss and dizziness occur.

Treatment of otitis should begin with the appearance of the first symptoms, before complications arise and the disease has not passed from an acute to a chronic form. You can cope with the disease while sitting at home, as long as your doctor prescribes suitable medications. A wide range of drugs are used to combat:

• drops;
• compresses;
• antibiotics by mouth;
• homeopathic remedies;
• folk remedies are used as maintenance therapy.

Ear drops

Otitis externa or otitis media can be easily treated with ear drops. The composition of such drugs can be one-component (contain only an antibiotic) or two-component (an antibiotic and an anti-inflammatory substance). Examples of such drugs are Otosporin, Polydex. Drops in the ears for otitis are considered an effective medicinal treatment method. There are many drugs designed to get rid of the disease. There are drops for otitis in adults that are used more often than others:

1. "Normax". Contains norfloxacin and excipients. Indications for use: external, moderate (acute and chronic), internal otitis. You need to drip 1-2 drops 4 times a day into the sore ear. Price: 100-140 rub.
2. "Otofa." Contains rifamycin sodium and other substances. Indications: external, moderate acute, moderate chronic otitis. Dosage of use – drop 5 drops into the ear 3 times a day. You can pour the medicine into the ear for about 2 hours. Price: 170-220 rubles.
3. "Sofradex". Rich composition: framycetin sulfate, gramicidin, dexamethasone. Used for otitis externa. Apply 2-3 drops 3-4 times/day. You can use compresses by filling the ear canal with a gauze swab containing medicine. Price: 290 rub.
4. "Anotite". Contains chloramphenicol, boric acid, lidocaine hydrochloride, excipients. Indications: external, non-purulent otitis media, purulent otitis media. Apply 4-5 drops 3-4 times / day. Price: 40-50 rub.

Find out more about how to choose ear drops for inflammation.

• Shooting in the ear of a child or adult - causes of symptoms, treatment with drops and folk remedies
• Otitis - inflammation of the ear in adults and children
• How to rinse the ear at home for a child and an adult - indications and contraindications, rules and preparations

Antibiotics

Such medications are required for moderate, diffuse, secretory types of disease, when drops alone do not help. Antibiotics can be used to treat bilateral, viral and fungal otitis media. These medications fight inflammatory processes that occur in the area of ​​the auditory organs, and some can relieve pain. It is recommended to take antibiotics for no more than 5 days. Strengthen the effect of drugs through additional drugs or folk remedies. Among the antibiotics used to treat otitis media are:

• “Spiramycin” (take 2-3 times/day, 1 capsule, price: 205 rubles);
• “Ampicillin” (drink 4 times/day, 1 capsule, price: 22 rubles);
• “Ciprofloxacin” (orally 2 times/day, 1 capsule, price: 14 rubles);
• other popular antibiotics are also allowed to be used.

Other medications

In addition to the above remedies, treatment of otitis media in adults and the external type of the disease is carried out using other accessible, inexpensive, but effective methods. You can use boric acid or boric alcohol. The product is heated to body temperature by immersing the bottle in warm water. Then the medicine is instilled into the ear canals with a pipette, 3 drops each. To prevent the drug from leaking, place cotton swabs in your ears. Boric acid for otitis media relieves inflammation and pain and is suitable as first aid when signs of the disease appear.

Folk remedies

When drug methods alone are not enough, proven methods of treating otitis media in adults come to the rescue. There are a great variety of folk remedies, each with a special effect. Such methods are best used at the first symptoms or as part of complex therapy. Sometimes you can get by only with folk remedies, but it is better to use medicines from the pharmacy. Here are some natural “remedies” to solve the problem:

1. Tincture of birch buds. To prepare, you need to infuse 10 g of birch buds into 200 ml of vodka or alcohol. Use the medicine after a week. Moisten the swab with the resulting product and place it in the ear. To relieve pain, several procedures will be required.
2. Propolis tincture. The medicine will come to the rescue with severe pain. Warm the drug, drop 2 drops into both ear canals, then place cotton swabs in your ears. The product should be kept for 15-20 minutes.
3. Sugar smoke. The original treatment. Take a tin lid without a rubber band, add 1 tbsp. l. sugar and place on a hot stove. When smoke appears, roll the newspaper into a tube, place it over the smoke, and place your ear near the hole. The procedure must take at least 5 minutes. After finishing it, insulate your ear.

• Effective ear drops for children and adults
• Tubootitis - what is it, symptoms and diagnosis, treatment and prevention
• Ear drops for otitis media

Homeopathy

Herbal treatment is gradually gaining popularity in modern society. Homeopathic pharmacies are also not uncommon. Each method of treating otitis in adults - homeopathy and herbal medicine - is considered completely safe. Nature is a storehouse of useful substances. The disease should be treated with herbs after a consultation with a doctor to prevent complications. What natural remedies to use:

• aconite – when tingling and pain occur in the hearing organs;
• belladonna - with a moderate degree of the disease, severe throbbing and tearing pain, buzzing, swelling near the ear;
• pulsatilla - for recovery from hearing loss, a feeling of congestion in the ear canal, purulent and bloody discharge;
• for very severe pain - ferrum fostorica.

Find out what to do about ear congestion without pain.

Prognosis and possible complications of otitis media

During the development of otitis media, the patient may experience a feeling of recovery even without the use of medications or any procedures according to traditional recipes. This condition is manifested by the subsidence of pain and normalization of the general condition, but this is a false relief that can lead to the development of serious and even life-threatening diseases:

• meningitis;
• brain abscess;
• mastoiditis.

When treated in accordance with the recommendations of doctors, the prognosis is favorable - the average duration of therapy is 10 days, relapses are quite rare.

What causes otitis media?

Inflammation is caused by the type of pathology, the state of the immune system and the influence of external factors. The fundamental elements in the formation of the disease are the influence of ambient temperature, the quality of the water used for washing, and the time of year.

The following factors can cause a strong inflammatory reaction:

• infection coming from another ENT organ;
• all kinds of problems with the nose and its sinuses, as well as the nasopharynx (all types of rhinitis, deviated nasal septum, the presence of adenoid vegetations);
• ear injuries;
• poor immunity and frequent body hypothermia.

Inflammation can also occur due to:

• allergies;
• diseases of the throat and nose;
• immunodeficiency states;
• surgical intervention in the nasopharynx or nasal cavity.

Major diseases

Deaf-mute

Deaf-mute is the absence of hearing and impairment of the vocal apparatus. It can be congenital or acquired. Reasons why deafness may develop:

• genetic predisposition;
• chickenpox;
• cytomegalovirus;
• mumps;
• meningitis;
• AIDS;
• syphilis;.
• Lyme disease;
• diabetes;
• tuberculosis;
• injuries.

This is the most severe type of ear disease. The main method of treatment is to help a person adapt to changed living conditions. Hearing aids are used for people with mild to moderate hearing loss. Children with congenital hearing loss undergo a special course in sign language.

See also

What to do if a child’s ear hurts, first aid and pain relief at home

Read

Sinusitis

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses and cavities that produce the mucus needed by the nasal passages. May be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi or allergies. Common symptoms include thick nasal mucus, stuffy nose, fever, headache, sore throat and cough. Sinusitis is not a disease of the ear, but it can cause pain in the ear.

Types of sinusitis:

1. Sinusitis is inflammation of the maxillary sinuses.
2. Ethmoiditis affects the walls of the ethmoid labyrinth. Most often found in scarlet fever.
3. Frontitis is an inflammation of the frontal paranasal sinus. The most severe type of sinusitis.

During treatment, antiseptic drugs, nasal drops, and antibiotics are prescribed. In case of acute sinusitis, sinus punctures are used.

Eustachite

Eustachitis is an inflammatory process localized in the Eustachian tube. Symptoms include a feeling of congestion, hearing loss, and tinnitus. Occurs as a result of chronic diseases and due to anatomical disorders (deviated nasal septum, rhinitis, sinusitis, nasopharyngitis, adenoids, polyps, sinusitis).

Most often children suffer from it. It is much less common in adults. Chronic eustachitis is fraught with the development of hearing loss.

When treating this disease, it is necessary to relieve swelling and eliminate the causes. Laser therapy, UHF therapy, and microwave therapy are used.

Mastoiditis

Mastoiditis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the antrum and the cells of the mastoid process. Symptoms include ear pain, fever, headache, redness and swelling in the mastoid area.

If you consult a doctor in a timely manner, mastoiditis can be easily treated. Therapy consists of a course of antibiotics. Lack of treatment leads to paralysis of the facial nerve and the development of hearing loss.

Meniere's disease

Meniere's disease is a non-inflammatory disease of the inner ear characterized by increased intralabyrinth pressure.

Symptoms:

• dizziness;
• noise in ears;
• progressive deafness;
• imbalance;
• nausea, vomiting;
• sweating;
• lowering blood pressure.

Although the causes of Meniere's disease have not been fully identified, factors that cause the disease include vascular diseases, infections, and injuries.

Meniere's disease is incurable. Surgical treatment helps relieve the symptoms of the disease without, however, stopping its progress. Treatment includes the use of medications to help control dizziness and fluid buildup. It is necessary to follow a diet and adhere to a diet. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

Acoustic neuritis

Acoustic neuritis is characterized by inflammation of the peripheral nerves. Main symptoms include tinnitus and ringing in the ears, as well as hearing loss.

Reasons for appearance:

• viral or bacterial infections - most often neuritis of the auditory nerve is a consequence of acute respiratory viral infections, influenza, meningitis, rubella, mumps;
• vascular diseases: hypertension, cerebral atherosclerosis;
• head injuries;
• poisoning with alcohol, drugs, lead.

Temporary hearing loss can occur with acute otitis media or exacerbation of chronic intoxication. May cause hearing loss. The sudden onset of tinnitus, ataxia, and vomiting precede hearing loss. Other neurological complications include facial neuritis and myelitis.

During treatment, the patient is prescribed medications that improve metabolic processes in the body, vasodilators. Surgery includes removal of the neuroma or hematoma.

Otitis

Otitis media is an inflammatory disease of the ears. It can be caused by hypothermia, abnormalities in the structure of the nose and nasopharynx, and infections of the nasal tract.

Types of otitis media:

1. Otitis externa affects the tissues of the ear canal, including the eardrum. Causes inflammation, redness, swelling and fluid accumulation behind the eardrum. The appearance of external otitis may be preceded by water getting into the ear. Symptoms: pain, hearing loss, tinnitus, purulent discharge, fever.
2. Otitis media affects the middle ear area. The most common type of otitis media. Especially common among children. Long-term infection can lead to damage to the ear ossicles and deformation of the eardrum. Symptoms: severe ear pain, fever, feeling of fullness in the ear, swollen lymph nodes.
3. Labyrinthitis is an inflammation of the inner ear. Occurs due to infection in the organ or due to injury. Most often it develops against the background of an advanced form of otitis media. The most dangerous type of otitis, as the infection can spread into the cranial cavity and cause meningitis or brain abscess. Symptoms include dizziness and imbalance.

It is important to identify otitis media at its initial stage, otherwise it can become chronic and cause serious illness. Depending on the type of otitis, the doctor prescribes treatment, which includes antibacterial drugs and cleansing of pus.

Fungus in the ears or otomycosis

Otomycosis is a contagious disease of the outer and middle ear caused by fungi. There are about 60 different types of fungi that affect the ears. The most common are Aspergillus and Candida.

Factors that cause otomycosis are vitamin deficiency, failure to comply with personal hygiene rules, swimming in open water, and prolonged stay in a damp and polluted room. It is often found among people with diabetes mellitus, chronic skin diseases, those with positive HIV status, and among residents of tropical countries. People who swim, wear headphones or wear hearing aids are also susceptible to it.

Symptoms of otomycosis:

• pain;
• itching;
• inflammation;
• edema;
• redness;
• peeling of the skin;
• tinnitus;
• discharge;
• hearing problems;

Treatment includes cleaning the ears and taking antifungal medications.

Otosclerosis

Otosclerosis is the growth of the bone labyrinth, which leads to deterioration or complete loss of hearing. Sound cannot travel from the middle ear to the inner ear. The causes of the appearance may be hereditary predisposition, hormonal disorders due to menopause or pregnancy. It is more often detected in women than in men.

Symptoms:

• dizziness;
• noise in ears;
• violation of movement coordination;
• a person ceases to distinguish low-frequency sounds and whispers.

Treatment consists of hearing aids or stapedoplasty (stapedium replacement).

Otogenic sepsis

Otogenic sepsis is an inflammatory disease caused by staphylococcus and hemolytic streptococcus. It occurs as a complication of chronic (less commonly acute) purulent otitis media. Characterized by the penetration of pathogenic bacteria into the bloodstream. In the initial stages, it is sometimes confused with mastoiditis.

Symptoms:

• chills;
• tenderness behind the mastoid process;
• fever;
• excessive sweating;
• yellowish skin color;
• temperature increase;
• skin rashes;
• increase in the size of the liver and spleen.

Among all diseases associated with the ears, the mortality rate with otogenic sepsis is the highest. If this disease is detected, urgent hospitalization is necessary. Treatment involves removing dead tissue, clearing pus and disinfecting the affected area. High doses of antibiotics and sulfonamides are also prescribed. In addition to drug treatment, the patient must follow the prescribed diet.

See also

What to do if there is gurgling in the ear, but does not hurt, how and what to treat

Read

Sulfur plug

Earwax is a mixture of secretions from the sebaceous glands and epithelium. Sometimes a wax plug occurs - a collection of earwax blocking the external auditory canal, which becomes dense over time. There are several reasons for the appearance of sulfur plugs: increased function of the sebaceous glands, otitis media, otomycosis, and foreign body entering the auditory canal. Sulfur plugs are characterized by symptoms such as:

• feeling of stuffiness;
• hearing loss;
• dizziness;
• one's own voice is heard as an echo.

When the wax plug is present for a long time, the patient begins to feel painful sensations. In advanced forms, diseases such as otitis media or myringitis may occur. You should not remove the wax plug yourself - this can lead to injury or infection of the ear canal. During the examination, the doctor (if there are no disorders or inflammation of the ear) will remove the plug and disinfect the ear canal.

Hearing loss

Hearing loss is caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, aging, noise exposure, infections, birth complications, ear injuries, and toxic substances. Infections such as syphilis and rubella during pregnancy can cause hearing loss in the baby.

The degree of hearing loss ranges from slight hearing loss to complete deafness. Most often found in older people.

There are 3 main types of hearing loss: sensorineural, conductive, mixed:

1. Sensorineural hearing loss is caused by the death of hair cells, which prevents mechanical vibrations from being converted into electrical impulses. Other factors of occurrence are damage to the ear nerve, Meniere's disease and infectious diseases (measles, meningitis, AIDS). Implants and hearing aids are used for treatment.
2. Conductive hearing loss occurs due to the failure of sound signals to pass through. Causes may include trauma, tumors, otitis media, and sulfur plugs. Conductive hearing loss is often temporary. Treatment includes surgery (removing the obstruction that is blocking sound), implants, hearing aids, and medications.
3. Mixed hearing loss occurs with the simultaneous influence of factors causing sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. In this case, treatment methods are strictly individual.

Ear injuries

Ear injuries are mechanical damage to the ear.

Types of injuries:

1. Barotrauma occurs due to changes in pressure in the middle ear, such as during diving, flying in an airplane, or being exposed to a shock wave. Symptoms include severe pain in the ears, dizziness, and severe nausea. With sudden and severe changes in pressure, cracks appear in the eardrum; in more severe cases, hemorrhage is observed. At the first symptoms, you should consult a doctor.
2. Burns.
3. Foreign body ingestion: sand, tablets, insects, parasites, weapon fragments due to head injuries. This type of injury is especially common in children. You cannot remove objects yourself. This can damage the ear and cause inflammation.
4. Blunt injuries.
5. Stab, cut, laceration wounds.
6. Fractures of the skull bones.