Middle Ear Infection - Symptoms

What are the symptoms of a middle ear infection?

Symptoms of a middle ear infection can vary and differ depending on the specific type of infection.

Common symptoms of a middle ear infection include:

A feeling of fullness in the ear
Chills
Drainage of pus and blood from the ear canal followed by relief from pain, which indicates that the eardrum has ruptured
Ear pain
Fever
Hearing loss
Irritability, fussiness, poor feeding, and poor sleeping in infants and young children
Tugging or rubbing at the ear in infants and young children

Serious symptoms that might indicate a life-threatening condition

In some cases, a middle ear infection can result in serious, even life-threatening, complications, such as meningitis or a brain abscess. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these symptoms:

Change in level of consciousness or alertness, such as passing out or unresponsiveness
Change in mental status or sudden behavior change, such as confusion, delirium, lethargy, hallucinations and delusions
Purple-reddish rash of tiny spots
Seizures
Stiff neck

INTRODUCTION

What is a middle ear infection?

A middle ear infection, also called otitis media, is a common, often painful, type of ear infection that occurs behind the eardrum. Middle ear infections are caused by bacteria or viruses. A middle ear infection can interfere with the normal process of hearing and result in ear pain, hearing impairment, and other symptoms. People of all ages can get a middle ear infection; however, it is m... Read more about middle ear infection introduction

CAUSES

What causes a middle ear infection?

Normally, fluid in the middle ear drains through the Eustachian tube to the throat. When the Eustachian tube becomes blocked or swollen, the fluid builds up in the middle ear. Bacteria and viruses grow and multiply easily when fluid in the middle ear does not drain normally. Conditions that cause swelling or blockage of the Eustachian tube include:... Read more about middle ear infection causes

TREATMENTS

How is a middle ear infection treated?

Treatment generally involves an individualized, multifaceted plan that addresses the infection, minimizes ear pain, and reduces the possibility of complications, such as hearing loss.... Read more about middle ear infection treatments