Ear Infection
EAR / EAR INFECTION
Diagnosis and treatment of ear pain, ear discharge and repeated ear infections with consultant ENT surgeon Dr Nurhani Yasmin Abdul Rahman at Kemena Pacific Hospital.
What is an ear infection?
An ear infection can affect the outer ear canal (otitis externa) or the space behind the eardrum (otitis media). Outer ear infections are common after swimming or cleaning the ears. Middle ear infections often follow a cold and are common in children.
Symptoms
- Ear pain
- Discharge from the ear
- Itching in the ear canal
- Reduced or muffled hearing
- Fever, especially in children
- A blocked feeling in the ear
Common causes
- Water trapped in the ear after swimming or bathing
- Scratching or cleaning with cotton buds
- Colds and nose allergies that block the eustachian tube
- A hole in the eardrum
- Fungal infection in humid weather
How Dr Yasmin assesses and treats ear infections
Dr Yasmin examines the ear under magnification and, when needed, cleans the ear canal so that drops can work properly. Treatment may include ear drops, oral medicine and advice on keeping the ear dry. For repeated infections, she looks for an underlying cause such as a hole in the eardrum or chronic fluid.
When to see an ENT specialist
- Ear pain or discharge lasting more than a few days
- Infections that keep coming back
- Reduced hearing after an infection
- Discharge that smells bad or is bloody
- Ear infection with dizziness or facial weakness
FAQs
Can an ear infection clear on its own?
Some mild middle ear infections settle without treatment, but ongoing pain, discharge or reduced hearing should be examined.
Why does my ear keep discharging?
Repeated discharge can be a sign of a hole in the eardrum or chronic infection and needs an ENT examination.
Can I swim with an ear infection?
It is best to keep the ear dry until it has healed.