Earache and Ear Infection

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What is an ear infection?

An ear infection — referred to as acute otitis media when it affects the middle ear or otitis externa when it involves the outer ear — is a common condition that can affect people of any age, though it is most frequently seen in children.

In most cases, ear infections resolve on their own within a few days without the need for treatment. However, if the infection is severe or happens repeatedly, antibiotics may be necessary to prevent potential long-term damage to the ears, which could lead to hearing loss.

Most symptoms of ear infections start very quickly and clear up, without treatment, within 3 - 7 days. The most common symptoms include:

Symptoms of an ear infection

• Lethargy

• Difficulty hearing

• Discharge from the ear

• A build-up of pressure inside the ear

• Itching in and around the ear

• Dry, scaly skin in and around the ear

• Pain inside the ear

• A high temperature of 38C or above

• Nausea and vomiting