Otitis is a disease characterized by inflammation in the ear. It mainly occurs in the inner, middle or outer parts of the ear. This disease, which is widespread especially among children, can cause serious health problems if not intervened in time.
Types of otitis
There are different types of otitis. These include:
External otitis
Otitis externa is an inflammation of the external ear canal. It is mainly caused by prolonged water retention in the ear and is also known as "swimmer's ear".
Otitis media
Otitis media is an inflammation of the middle part of the ear. This type is mainly found in children and is accompanied by pain in the ear and hearing loss.
Internal otitis
Otitis media is an inflammation of the inner part of the ear. It is less common but can cause serious balance and hearing problems.
Symptoms of otitis
The symptoms of otitis can vary depending on the type, but the most common symptoms include:
Pain and discomfort
Acute or persistent pain in the ear.
Hearing loss
Hearing loss or temporary hearing loss.
Discharge from the ear
In some cases, discharge of fluid or pus from the ear.
High temperature
Fever can be observed during otitis media, especially in children.
Balance problems
Dizziness and imbalance during otitis media.
Causes of otitis
Otitis can occur for various reasons. The main reasons are:
Bacterial or viral infections
Infections, such as the flu or a cold, are one of the main causes of otitis media.
Allergies
Allergic reactions can cause inflammation in the ear.
Contact with water
The most common cause of otitis externa is water retention in the ear canal.
Weakness of immunity
People with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of otitis media.
Treatment of otitis
Otitis treatment depends on the type and degree of the disease. The main treatment methods include:
Antibiotics
It is prescribed by a doctor for the treatment of bacterial infections.
Painkillers
Medicines such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used to reduce ear pain.
Local drops
During otitis externa, ear drops help to reduce inflammation.
Surgical intervention
In persistent and severe cases, a drainage tube may be placed in the ear.
Prevention of otitis
You can take the following measures to prevent otitis:
Follow the rules of hygiene
Keep the ear canal clean and avoid contact with foreign objects.
Use ear protection when swimming
Use ear protection to avoid contact with water.
Avoid catching a cold
Treat flu and colds in time.
Take precautions against allergies
Use appropriate medications to manage allergies.
Otitis in children
Otitis is a very common health problem among children. Especially children between 6 months and 3 years are more prone to this disease. Anatomical and immune characteristics of children make them susceptible to ear infections.
Causes of otitis in children
In children, the auditory tube (eustachian tube) is shorter, narrower and horizontal than in adults. This makes it easier for fluid to accumulate in the ear and for bacteria to multiply.
Immune system weakness
Since the immune system of children is not fully developed, their bodies fight less effectively against bacteria and viruses.
Respiratory tract infections
Colds, flu, and other upper respiratory tract infections can cause fluid buildup in the middle ear in children.
Allergies
Allergies to dust, pollen, and certain foods can increase the risk of otitis by increasing fluid accumulation in the ear.
Symptoms of otitis in children
Symptoms of otitis in children can sometimes manifest themselves in a different form. Below is information about these symptoms:
Ear pain: A child may indicate pain by holding his ear.
Restlessness and sleep disturbance: As the pain during otitis increases at night, the child develops insomnia.
Discharge from the ear: Yellowish or bloody fluid may flow from the ear, especially with purulent otitis media.
Fever: In children, the temperature may rise during otitis.
Hearing loss: Fluid buildup in the middle ear can affect a child's hearing.
Balance problems: Children may experience imbalance during otitis media.
Complications of otitis in children
Otitis, which is not treated in time, can cause a number of serious complications in children:
Permanent hearing loss: Long-term otitis media can lead to permanent hearing loss.
Perforated eardrum: Increased pressure in the middle ear can lead to damage to the eardrum.
Meningitis: In severe cases, otitis media can cause inflammation of the membranes of the brain and spinal cord.
Otitis in children and adults is a common disease that can be treated with the right approach. However, it is important to consult a doctor in time when symptoms are observed. At the same time, it is possible to protect children's health by taking preventive measures.