When anear infectiondoes not go away or keeps coming back, it is called a chronic ear infection.
The middle ear is the space behind theeardrum.
It can become infected if theeustachian tube, which drains fluids from the middle ear, becomes blocked.
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The buildup can apply pressure on the eardrum, which can result inearache.
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What Is a Chronic Ear Infection?
It can become chronic.
When it becomes chronic, it is referred to as chronicchronic otitis media with effusion (COME).
Symptoms
While ear infections are incredibly common, they tend to heal fairly quickly.
To be considered chronic, the symptoms have to last for at least three months.
Because of this, many people are unaware that they have a chronic ear infection.
ACT (computed tomography) scanmay be required to investigate whether the infection has spread.
If hearing loss is one of the symptoms, hearing tests may also be conducted.
For example, if bacteria are to blame, antibiotics will be prescribed.
If the cause is a hole in the eardrum, surgery may be needed.
Medications
Antibiotics are the first-line treatment for chronic ear infections triggered by bacteria.
If the infection is triggered by a fungus, topical antifungal medications will be prescribed.
Antibiotics are available as capsules or ear drops.
For children with chronic bacterial ear infections, liquid antibiotics may be prescribed.
The most common antibiotics used are amoxicillin or penicillin.
Ear drops are typically the first-line treatment for a hole in your eardrum.
These ear drops may contain antibiotics.
Surgery to repair a hole in the eardrum is known astympanoplasty.
A mastoidectomy removes the infected material from those spaces.
When these adenoids become inflamed, they can cause fluid buildup in the ear.
Research has shown that adenoidectomies may be the best way to manage chronic ear infections in children.
Ear tube surgeryis another treatment option often used for children with chronic ear infections.
The surgery involves placing tubes in the eardrum so that airflow is restored.
Can Adults with Chronic Ear Infections Get Ear Tubes?
It can be because of an acute ear infection that does not go away completely or repeat ear infections.
Symptoms can include ear pain, fever, pus-like drainage from the ear, and hearing loss.
If symptoms continue or get worse, or if the infection returns, get treatment promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
There is no one reason why an ear infection keeps returning.
Treatment options vary depending on the cause of the chronic ear infection.
In many cases, ear drops containing antibiotics will be used if the cause is bacterial.
If you experience any signs of an ear infection, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.
Getting treatment early will help prevent permanent damage to your ear or other health complications.
Chronic ear infections can cause permanent damage if left untreated.
The infection could spread to other parts of the head or cause the eardrum to rupture.
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