Ear Infections
Ear infections occur when viruses or bacteria within the ear result in swelling and a build-up of fluids.
Ear infections are a common occurrence, especially among young children. However, a prompt diagnosis is advisable to eliminate anything more serious.
Symptoms
Most ear infections usually clear up after 3 days, although some symptoms can last up to a week.
Symptoms of an ear infection may include:
- inner ear pain
- sickness
- discharge from the ear
- impaired hearing
- high temperature
- irritation in and around the ear
- lack of energy
- feeling of pressure within the ear
- scaly skin in and around the ear
Additionally, babies or young children’s symptoms may include:
- irritability and restlessness
- loss of balance
- lack of appetite
- no reaction to some sounds
- touching or pulling of the ear
Outer Ear Infections
Infections of the outer ear, known as otitis externa, can often cause inflammation, pain, and swelling of the ear canal.
Widespread otitis externa (often referred to as 'swimmer’s ear’) can affect a larger part of your ear canal until it reaches your eardrum.
More localised otitis externa can originate from the infection of a hair follicle and create a boil within the ear.
Symptoms Include:
- Discharge from the ear
- Severe pain in the ear
- Temporary hearing loss
- Itching inside the ear
- Red or swollen ear canal
If you are suffering from any of these symptoms, Ahmeys' pharmacists can prescribe different courses of treatment depending on the nature of the ear infection.
Inner Ear Infections
Inner ear infections (also known as Labyrinthitis) can be caused by viruses or bacteria.
If you exhibit symptoms of inner ear infection you should seek further consultation as they can have serious effects.
Symptoms can include:
- Loss of balance
- Dizziness
- Vertigo
- Hearing loss
Antibiotics are not usually prescribed to treat inner ear infections.
However, it may be necessary in cases where:
- ear infection does not see improvement after 3 days
- you or your child has an illness that could risk further complications (e.g. cystic fibrosis)
- you or your child has fluid leaking from the ear
