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Ear infections are caused by several factors and can affect both children and adults. Ear infections can cause pain and discomfort and lead
to additional health problems, such as hearing loss, if left untreated. An ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor could develop an individualized treatment plan for you or your child. Dr. Frank Kardos is your ENT doctor in Wayne, NJ, for the treatment of ear infections.
Types of Ear Infections
Ear infections can be caused by various factors, including sinus infections, bacterial infections, allergies, and colds. Other potential causes of ear infections include smoking or exposure to cigarette smoke and climate or altitude changes. Infants and young children can develop ear infections from using a pacifier or drinking from a bottle. Many of these factors contribute to the development of ear infections by causing fluid to build up in the middle ear, which can result in blockages that prevent the ear from draining properly.
The ear is comprised of three main areas that can each become infected. The three types of ear infections include:
- Outer Ear / Otitis Externa — Also referred to as swimmer’s ear, this type of ear infection results from inflammation in the outer ear, which can be caused by the presence of water, sand, or dirt in the ear canal. Symptoms of an outer ear infection include swelling and redness in the outer ear, itching, and severe pain.
- Middle Ear / Otitis Media — This type of ear infection is caused by a viral or bacterial infection, which could be triggered by an infection elsewhere in the body, allergies, or a blocked Eustachian tube. One symptom of a middle ear infection is the discharge of a thick fluid from the middle ear.
- Inner Ear / Otitis Interna — This type of ear infection is often caused by an existing infection in another part of the body, such as a sinus, throat, or tooth infection. Symptoms of an inner ear infection include tinnitus, hearing loss, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and fever.
Treatments for Ear Infections
It is important to see an ENT specialist for treatment if you or your child develop(s) an ear infection. Untreated ear infections can result in hearing loss, bone or cartilage damage in the ear, or recurring ear infections. At our ENT practice in Wayne, ear infections can be treated in several ways. Dr. Kardos can recommend the right options for best treating an ear infection based on the type and cause of infection. Treatments include:
- Medication to relieve pain
- Oral antibiotics for clearing up bacterial infections
- Ear drops for pain relief or to block bacterial growth
- Ear tubes to improve ventilation and prevent fluid build up
- Myringotomy (draining of fluids from behind the eardrum)
Ear infections can cause pain and discomfort and can lead to long-term complications, such as hearing loss, if not treated in a timely manner. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Kardos if you have an ear infection by calling our office in Wayne, NJ, at (973) 956-1200.