An ear infection is the result of a bacterial or viral invasion of the ear. It can affect the middle ear, which is the airspace behind the eardrum, containing three bones that help transmit sound to the inner ear.
Studies show that anyone can get an ear infection. Both adults and children can have ear infections.
Ear Infections
An ear infection, also called Otitis, tends to cause swelling and blockage of the narrow tubes that run from the middle ear to the back of the throat. This can cause a build-up of mucus and if infected can cause discomfort.
Most times, when the infection is not severe, it clears up on its own with proper management and observation. However, antibiotics can also be used to clear up the infection.
Furthermore, some people have a high chance of having multiple ear infections, which can lead to hearing defects and other complications.
Types of Ear Infections
Ear infections are grouped based on the area affected. The following are the types of ear infections according to the affected area.
Outer Ear Infection (Otitis Externa)
This is an infection that involves swelling that affects the outer part of the ear it can be infectious or non-infectious. It affects the external auditory canal and can extend to the pinna, which can be acute or chronic. Here, the most common cause is bacterial, but sometimes it may be fungal. Some examples of this type of ear infection are;
- Malignant otitis externa: also known as necrotizing otitis externa, is a life-threatening infection that affects the external auditory canal and the skull of a person. it has the following symptoms:
- Deep ear pain that gets worse when the head is moved.
- Fever.
- Itchy ear.
- Facial muscle weakness.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Smelly greenish or yellowish discharge from the ear.
- Gradual hearing loss.
- Otomycosis: is a type of otitis externa that is caused by fungi and causes itching and pain. its symptoms include:
- Burning sensation.
- Black, grey, white, green, or yellow discharge from the ear.
- Severe itching.
- Swellings.
- Headache.
- Ear may look red.
Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media)
An infection of the middle ear is characterized by the presence of fluid behind the eardrum. It is the most common type of ear infection and can happen to babies below six months of age. Although this infection is common, it can sometimes require surgery to treat it. Some middle ear infections include:
- Serous otitis media: also known as Otitis media with Effusion (OME) and commonly called glue ear, is a middle ear infection characterized by an accumulation of serum in the middle ear. It occurs as a result of a dysfunctional Eustachian tube and can affect little children. It causes symptoms such as:
- Gradual hearing loss.
- Pressure inside ear.
- Infectious myringitis: an infection of the middle ear caused by viruses or bacteria that cause colds and middle ear infections. It causes blisters on the eardrum of the affected person. Children and adults can get infected. The infection causes the following symptoms:
- Sudden severe ear pain.
- Loss of appetite.
- Fever.
- Hearing loss.
- Difficulty sleeping.
- Fluid leaking from infected ear.
- Acute mastoiditis: this is an infection that happens as a result of Acute Otitis Media. The infection affects the mastoid bone. This infection, when treated, can go away within a month. People of any age can be affected, although children below age 2 are at higher risk. The following are the symptoms:
- Swollen skin covering the mastoid.
- Pain behind the ear.
- The ear may look distorted or out of position.
- Gradual hearing loss.
- Smelly discharge (pus) from the ear.
Inner Ear Infection (Otitis Interna)
Also called Labyrinthitis, is an infection of the inner ear that causes inflammation of the inner ear. The inner ear consists of sensory organs for hearing and balance. This infection can affect both young children and adults. Some inner ear infections include:
- Vestibular neuronitis: this is an inflammation of the nerves that link the inner ear to the brain. An infection like the flu can trigger this infection. Symptoms of this condition include:
- Hearing loss.
- Vertigo.
Treatment of Ear Infection
There are different approaches to ear infection treatment; you can visit a doctor depending on the severity, or you can have a home treatment. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or other forms of treatment.
Although there are many ways of treating an ear infection, this article will focus on natural remedies.
Natural Ways of Treating an Ear Infection
There are several natural ways you can manage an ear infection without having to spend much or even leave the comfort of your home. Some natural ways of treating an ear infection include:
Garlic
Over time, research has shown that garlic has antibiotic properties and is capable of relieving inflammations. Studies also show that it is effective against bacteria such as K. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa which are responsible for ear infections. Garlic contains allicin which is responsible for its antimicrobial properties.
It can be used as a pain reliever; all you have to do is chew one fresh clove once a day or crush the fresh clove, mix it with coconut oil, and rub it around the ear. Never put garlic inside your ear.
Ginger
Like garlic, ginger is also very famous for its medicinal benefits. The ginger root is also considered to be antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. These properties make it a good option to relieve some of the symptoms caused by a cold.
Since ear infections can be caused by the viruses or bacteria responsible for a cold, the root can be used to relieve some ear infection symptoms such as inflammation.
Extract ginger juice and apply it around the ear, or mix ginger juice with oil and rub it around the ear. Never put ginger inside your ear.
Sleeping position
Sleeping on a flat surface may be okay when you have no health issues, but while managing an ear infection it is best to prop your head up on a pillow to relieve the ache a bit. Adjust yourself on the pillow till you find a position that makes the pain less.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is also said to have antibacterial properties, which makes it an option for treating ear infections at home. It is most effective for clearing up wax build-up that has been infected by bacteria or fungi.
To use olive oil for relief, simply make it warm and put 1 or 2 drops in your ear to melt the wax. After the application, leave for a few minutes, then clean out the wax gently with a cotton bud.
Cold compress
Putting something cold on the affected ear can help reduce pressure build-up in the ear and give relief over throbbing pain.
Simply wrap ice cubes in a small towel and put this on the affected ear for at least 20 minutes. Do it 2 to 3 times a day depending on how you feel.
Basil leaves
Basil leaves may be the most effective way of relieving ear pain. It is mainly used for the treatment of allergies and infections. It has healing properties.
To use basil, simply grind some fresh basil leaves and rub on the affected ear. You can also mix it with coconut oil before applying it to the ear. Avoid putting it in put in your ear.
When to Call Your Doctor
Aside from using natural ways to soothe an ear problem, you must know when it is time to go to the hospital. Here are a few conditions that say ‘call your doctor’:
- The fever and pain won’t go away.
- Your severe earache suddenly stops; this could mean eardrum rupture.
- Headache persists.
- You start seeing discharge from the ear.
- Your facial muscles feel weak.
- Dizziness.
- If your child experiences these symptoms.
Summary
In conclusion, a natural means or home remedy may soothe an ear problem that is not severe, but contact your doctor whenever you observe anything unusual.
Thus, only a medical practitioner can tell you if an infection is severe or minor. Please take your health seriously.
