A double ear infection, also called a bilateral ear infection, is one that affects both ears simultaneously.
The symptoms of a double ear infection are generally worse than a unilateral (one-sided) ear infection.
Even so, the treatment is similar whether one or two ears are involved.
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In addition, bleeding and bulging of theeardrumare more common and severe.
The function of the Eustachian tube is to equalize pressure between the middle and outer ear.
Bilateral AOM happens when the inflammation extends to both Eustachian tubes, usually the result of a severe URTI.
Are Double Ear Infections Contagious?
Ear infections are neither contagious nor spread from person to person.
Medications
The treatment of a double ear infection depends on its cause.
If it is resulting from a virus, no medication is needed.
If the infection is because of bacteria, you will needantibiotics.
This is especially true for children younger than 2 years old.
A broad-spectrum antibiotic likeamoxicillinis often prescribed because it can treat a wide variety of different bacteria.
To ease ear pain, an over-the-counter painkiller likeTylenol (acetaminophen)orAdvil (ibuprofen)can help.
Oral or nasalantihistaminesmay also help ease nasal inflammation and, in turn, reduce swelling of the Eustachian tubes.
Simply soak a washcloth in warm water and wring it out fully before applying it to your ears.
A saltwater gargle may also help.
Mix 1 teaspoon of salt with 1 cup of warm water and gargle for a couple of minutes.
If your ear infection is related to a sore throat, this can help ease your symptoms.
Home remedies may help ease symptoms but have no effect on the ear infection itself.
How Long Does a Double Ear Infection Last?
With the proper treatment, double ear infections heal fairly quickly.
For severe infections, oral antibiotics are typically prescribed three times daily for seven to 10 days.
It is important to take the full course of antibiotics to avoid antibiotic resistance.
if you don’t, it may be harder to treat the infection if it returns.
If left untreated, some infections can permanently damage ear organs or disseminate (spread) to nearby structures.
The infection is more common in the middle ear (otitis media).
Complications from a double ear infection are rare but can be severe.
See your healthcare provider if you have symptoms of a double ear infection to get the right treatment.
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