An ear infection happens whenthe middle earbecomes inflamed and fluid builds up behind the eardrum.
This article discusses the causes, symptoms, and diagnosis of ear infections.
It also includes information about other possible reasons you or your child may have ear pain and redness.
Verywell
Behind your eardrum is a small chamber called the middle ear.
Children have narrower and shorter eustachian tubes than adults, making them more prone to ear infections.
The most common punch in of ear infection is acute otitis media (AOM).
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Symptoms of AOM tend to come on suddenly.
Although rare, children can also develop a bacterial infection in the temporal bones that surround the ear canal.
This condition is known asacute mastoiditis, and it is very rare.
Diagnosis
Healthcare providers can safely examine ears for infection using an otoscope.
Usually, this exam is enough to make a diagnosis.
Signs of fluid behind the eardrum or in the ear canal will confirm the diagnosis.
Your healthcare provider may also use a small probe to lightly pulse sound waves against the eardrum.
Imaging
In most cases, imaging is not necessary to check for an ear infection.
Healthcare provider use an otoscope to examine the ear for infection.
A buildup of fluid in the middle ear and drainage of pus is consistent with an ear infection.
What Else Could It Be?
Many other conditions have similar symptoms as an ear infection.
Treatment
Most cases of ear infections get better on their own without medication.
Infections that are severe or persist beyond three days may be treated with an antibiotic like amoxicillin.
Summary
An ear infection typically begins after a cold, flu, or upper respiratory infection.
Ear infections are more common in children than adults.
In children, the infection generally clears up within three days on its own.
If something seems off with your child, take them to a healthcare provider.
Your healthcare provider may recommend using a warm compress and over-the-counter pain relievers.
Typically, your child will be back to their usual self within a few days.
Lab tests are rarely used to determine the cause.
In many cases, both a virus and bacteria are involved.
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Lieberthal AS, Carroll AE, Chonmaitree T, et al.The diagnosis and management of acute otitis media.Pediatrics.
Columbia University Irving Medical Center.Middle ear infection in adults.
Cedars-Sinai.Middle ear infection (otitis media) in adults.
Merck Manual Professional Version.Otitis media (acute).
