ما هي عدوى الأذن الوسطى؟
عذرا ، لم يتم العثور على وظائف.
**Question: What is Middle Ear Infection?**
**Answer:**
A middle ear infection (otitis media) is a common ear condition among children, but adults can also be affected. It occurs when fluid or pus accumulates in the middle ear, the air-filled space behind the eardrum, causing inflammation and pain.
**Symptoms of Middle Ear Infection:**
* Ear pain, which may worsen when lying down
* Fever
* Fluid discharge from the ear
* Hearing loss or muffled hearing
* Balance problems
* Headache
**Causes of Middle Ear Infection:**
* Bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae
* Viruses, such as the common cold or flu virus
* Allergies
* Enlarged adenoids (lymph nodes behind the nose)
* Cleft palate
**Risk Factors for Middle Ear Infection:**
* Young age (especially children under 5)
* Exposure to cigarette smoke
* Frequent exposure to colds and respiratory infections
* Bottle-feeding, especially when lying down
**Diagnosis of Middle Ear Infection:**
A healthcare provider can diagnose a middle ear infection by examining the ear using an otoscope, a lighted instrument that allows them to visualize the eardrum.
**Treatment for Middle Ear Infection:**
Treatment depends on the severity of the infection and whether it is caused by bacteria or viruses:
* **Bacterial Infection:** Antibiotics are typically prescribed to treat bacterial infections.
* **Viral Infection:** Treatment focuses on symptom relief, such as pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) and decongestants.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to insert ventilation tubes into the eardrum to drain fluid and prevent further infections.
**Prevention of Middle Ear Infection:**
* Vaccinate children against the pneumococcus and influenza bacteria.
* Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke.
* Avoid prone positioning during bottle-feeding.
* Treat colds and respiratory infections promptly.
**Complications of Middle Ear Infection:**
* Perforated eardrum
* Permanent hearing loss
* Mastoiditis (infection of the bone behind the ear)
* Meningitis (infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord)
**Additional FAQs:**
* **Can middle ear infections affect balance?** Yes, fluid in the middle ear can interfere with balance, causing dizziness or vertigo.
* **How long does a middle ear infection typically last?** Symptoms usually improve within a few days, but the infection may take longer to clear completely.
* **When should I seek medical attention for a middle ear infection?** Contact a healthcare provider if you experience severe pain, fever, or discharge from the ear.
What is middle ear infection
What is Otitis Media