Acute and Chronic Ear Infections

Ear infections, also known as otitis media, are one of the most common conditions, affecting up to 75 percent of children in the US by the time they reach the age of three. This condition develops as a result of a buildup of fluid in the Eustachian tubes, which connect the eardrum to the nose. Patients with an ear infection may experience earache, fever, ear discharge, headache and dizziness. Ear infections rarely affect adults.

Most ear infections go away on their own within two or three days. Treatment for these cases aims to relieve pain and other symptoms, although your doctor may not recommend any treatment at all. Some patients may experience chronic ear infections, which involves long-term damage to the middle ear from frequent infection and inflammation. Chronic ear infection treatment may include antibiotics, steroids, placement of ventilation tubes or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.