What are the symptoms of a middle ear infection?
November 26, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Gerald Reimann
Dear Sir or Madam,
My name is Anneliese Seebauer and I am contacting you because I have been suffering from severe ear pain for some time now and suspect it could be a middle ear infection. I have been experiencing a throbbing and stabbing sensation in my right ear for several days, accompanied by a dull feeling and slight pressure. Additionally, I feel like my ear is blocked and I hear muffled or even nothing at all in that ear.
These symptoms are concerning me and significantly affecting my daily life, as I have difficulty hearing and also feel pain in my ear that sometimes radiates to my head. I have tried to alleviate the symptoms with home remedies and painkillers, but it seems that the discomfort is not improving.
Therefore, I would like to know from you what specific symptoms could indicate a middle ear infection and what measures I should take to alleviate the symptoms and treat a possible infection. Are there any specific home remedies I can use, or should I seek medical attention immediately? What other symptoms may occur and when should I seek professional help?
Thank you in advance for your assistance and I look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
Anneliese Seebauer
Dear Mrs. Seebauer,
Thank you for your message and your trust. I am sorry to hear that you are suffering from severe ear pain and suspect it may be a middle ear infection. A middle ear infection, also known as otitis media, is an inflammation of the middle ear caused by bacteria or viruses. The symptoms you described, such as a throbbing and stabbing sensation in the ear, a dull feeling, pressure in the ear, a blocked Eustachian tube, and muffled or no hearing in the affected ear, can indeed indicate a middle ear infection.
To alleviate the symptoms and treat a possible infection, it is important that you see a doctor promptly. An ear, nose, and throat specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and provide you with an individualized treatment recommendation. Typically, antibiotic drops or antibiotics are prescribed for an acute middle ear infection to combat the inflammation. Pain relievers can also be taken to alleviate the pain.
There are some home remedies that can be used to support the treatment of a middle ear infection. For example, warm compresses can be applied to the affected ear to relieve pain. Inhalations with chamomile or essential oils can also help alleviate the symptoms. However, these home remedies should only be seen as supportive measures and should never replace medical treatment.
Other symptoms that may occur with a middle ear infection include fever, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. If you notice any of these symptoms in addition to the ones mentioned earlier, it is even more important that you seek medical help as soon as possible.
I hope this information helps you and that you can soon receive appropriate treatment to alleviate your symptoms. Please do not hesitate to see a specialist and seek professional advice.
Sincerely,
Gerald Reimann
