Otitis Media

Otitis media is an infection of the middle ear which is the space behind the ear drum. These infections can be caused by viruses or bacteria that reach the middle ear by way of the eustachian tube, a small airway that extends from the middle ear to the throat. When the eustachian tube becomes congested with either mucus or swelling of the mucus membrane, you get the sensation of not being able to equalize pressure. As you try to equalize, and as you blow your nose, you can blow bacteria into your middle ear and develop infection. As infection develops you will be developing pain, hearing problems, possibly fever/chills and ear drainage.

Otitis media is not contagious. It mostly follows colds, allergies, and sinus infections.

Instructions

Try to keep the eustachian functioning by taking your decongestant, expectorant and nose spray or drops as recommended.
Finish your antibiotics as prescribed.
If you must be in a baro-pressure situation (airplane, scuba, etc.) use your nose spray one hour before and possibly again 30 minutes before the activity. This may help prevent ear drum rupture.
Heat (warm compress, heating pad on low or hair dryer on low) may be helpful. Usually ear drops are not helpful unless you have a concurrent external infection (otitis externa).
Do not pack with cotton, poke with Q-tips, etc.

Call If

You do not feel better in one or two days, or you develop severe headache or pain around the ear.
You develop swelling around the ear.
You develop stiff neck and dizziness or if you cannot walk normally.
You develop a high fever, chills, sweats, achy muscles or nausea.
You have problems or questions regarding your medication.