Have you ever felt a sudden sharp pain in your ears? You may also be familiar with an odd ringing sound that leaves you feeling like you can’t hear properly. If you have experienced any of the situations above, then you might have an ear infection.
Infections may occur in different parts of the ear. They are mainly caused by either a fluid buildup in the middle ear (otitis media) or an infection which causes swelling in the Eustachian tubes. According to Mayo Clinic, these two narrow tubes run “from each middle ear to high in the back of the throat, behind the nasal passages.” This is the same passageway that is responsible for regulating air pressure and draining secretions from the middle ear. Ear infections may be caused by a number of things, so it is important to watch out for these common causes.
- Allergies
Ear infections can be a side effect of allergies. The “popping” sensation is similar to getting water in your ears after you go swimming, which is also referred to as “swimmers ear.” Suffering from an allergic reaction causes your Eustachian tubes to swell, resulting in a blockage which can be quite painful. Congestion in your middle ear can develop into pus which is a sign of virus or bacteria growth.
- Swollen adenoids
Adenoids are small pads of tissues located at the back of the nose. Any sign of irritation or swelling of the adenoids can lead to an ear infection since it is also near the opening of the Eustachian tubes. Children, in particular, are more prone to suffering from an ear infection due to swollen adenoids since they have larger adenoids than adults.
- External factors
Ear infections are quite normal and can be a side effect of exposure to different triggers like changes in the altitude, extreme weather, secondhand smoke, and other underlying medical conditions like cough and colds. Age plays a part in calculating risk factors since children have underdeveloped immune systems and bigger adenoids which can potentially block their Eustachian tubes.
Take better care of your ears by keeping them clean and dry. Do not insert any foreign object into your ears and avoid using cotton buds. Your ear has a natural way of cleaning itself, so it is best to consult a professional if you experience any discomfort.
Read: 5 Tips for Healthy Ears
General disclaimer
Your doctor will always be in the best position to give the appropriate medical advice for your condition. For suspected undesirable drug reaction, seek medical attention immediately and report to the FDA at www.fda.gov.ph and UNILAB, Inc. at 8-UNILAB-1 or productsafety@unilab.com.ph. Always buy your medicine from your trusted drugstores and retailers.
Sources:
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ear-infections/symptoms-causes/
- https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/otitis-media.html
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8613-ear-infection-otitis-media
- https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use/community/for-patients/common-illnesses/ear-infection.html
