Are you having a double-ear infection and want to know how to treat it? Or are you just here to educate yourself about this condition? In either case, you have found the right spot.
When the infection has spread to both ears, it is known as a double-ear infection. We will cover everything related to it in detail below. From symptoms to diagnosis and treatment, we will help you with everything. Beware; it’s a sensitive condition and can lead to severe complications if it’s not treated in time.
You will know all about this infection after going through this guide. You will be able to recover quickly with these instructions. Let’s know more about this condition, starting with its most common symptoms.
Symptoms of a Double Ear Infection
Symptoms of a double-ear infection are felt in both ears. So you usually feel the problems in both ears. These are the most common symptoms of this infection. It’s not necessary to feel them all, but if a few sound familiar, then you need to see a doctor.
- Ear pain
- Fluid drainage from the ears
- Hearing loss
- Fever
- Irritability
- Trouble sleeping
- Balance issues
- Headache
- Redness or swelling of the ears
- Decreased appetite
- Tugging or rubbing in the ears
Double Ear Infection Causes
There can be various causes of double ear infections. One of the most common causes is developing it after an upper respiratory infection. Let’s take a detailed look at all its potential causes.
- Upper respiratory infection: Infections like colds can lead to a double ear infection. It happens when germs travel from the nose and throat to the middle ear through the eustachian tubes.
- Bacteria or viruses in the middle ear: Invasion of the middle ear by harmful microorganisms can also cause it. Bacteria or viruses can cause inflammation and infection in both ears simultaneously.
- Worsening of one ear infection: Initial ear infection can also spread to the other ear and cause a double infection.
- Enlarged adenoids: Swollen adenoids located near the Eustachian tubes can obstruct proper drainage and lead to it. These types of infections are more common among kids.
Diagnosis
If the symptoms of the double-ear infection sound familiar, you should visit a doctor and seek medical help. This infection is more common among kids, and if your kid is around 6 months of age or younger, you should immediately seek medical treatment.
Timely diagnosis and treatment can save you a lot of trouble. Doctors usually diagnose it with a simple or pneumatic otoscope to check the infection. Moreover, he will also ask about your symptoms and your patient history and then prescribe you the medicine you need.
Double-Ear Infection Treatments
There are multiple treatment options for this condition. Get a thorough diagnosis to find out the suitable treatment option for yourself. Following are some of the options your doctor may prescribe you. Let’s check them out in detail.
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics are also one of the treatment options for this infection. These help in eliminating the bacteria.
- Ear drops: The next option is using ear drops. These can reduce pain and inflammation in your ears.
- Pain relievers: You may also be prescribed painkillers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. These will ease your discomfort and make you feel relaxed.
- Antipyretic medications: Your doctor may also prescribe you antipyretic medications. These help reduce fever during the infection.
- Decongestants: The next option is using decongestants. It reduces congestion and promotes drainage to reduce pressure.
- Surgical drainage: The last treatment option on our list is surgical drainage. It is practiced in severe cases for draining the liquid from the ear.
Complications
A double-ear infection can cause several complications if left untreated. It is a severe infection, so you need to treat it properly. Following are some of the complications associated with it in case the situation worsens.
- Temporary hearing loss
- Eardrum Damage
- Spread to Mastoid
- Serious systemic-like effects on the brain or the circulatory system.
- Permanent hearing loss.
Preventions to Stay Safe
Following are some important precautions to keep you safe from a double-ear infection. Practising these will keep you safe from getting infected by this condition.
- Practice good hygiene by cleaning your ears gently with a washcloth. Avoid inserting objects like cotton swabs too deeply.
- Keep your ears dry by using earplugs or a swim cap while swimming. Dry them properly after bathing or swimming.
- Avoid loud noises for longer durations. It may include listening to music or working in loud places.
- Maintain a healthy immune system. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep are key to this.
- Address allergies promptly, as they can contribute to ear infections.
- Be cautious with respiratory infections such as colds. Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- Avoid secondhand smoke, as it can irritate the ear passages and increase susceptibility to infections.
Final Words
A double-ear infection is a severe condition. It requires proper attention and understanding to prevent severe complications. You should be especially careful with this condition among small kids. Get a timely diagnosis for a quick and safe recovery.
If you have sensitive ears, follow the necessary preventative measures to stay safe. Don’t start self-medication, as it can cause a lot of problems for you later. Seek medical attention, as this condition can even lead to permanent heart loss, which no one wants. I hope it helps!
