A bilateral otitis media, referred to as a double ear infection, is one where both ears are infected at the same time. This condition can be even more uncomfortable and even more severe than just having an ear infection.
Causes of Double Ear Infection
The infections are normally described as bacterial or viral, and they invade the middle ear through the Eustachian tube, which is the passage connecting the middle ear and the throat. Factors that can increase the risk include:
- Common illnesses like the flu, colds, strep throat, and many more.
- Allergies.
- Sinus infections.
- Exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Supplemental night feeding of the baby in a lying down position.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a double ear infection can include:
They only complain of bilateral earache, which only affects both ears.
- Fever.
- Difficulty hearing.
- Itching of ears with drainage of the fluids.
- Restlessness or soreness of the skin (This is usually a sign that the child is too young to give their opinion)
- Trouble sleeping.
- A stuffed-up feeling in the ears accompanies this.
Treatment For a Double Ear Infection
Treatment for a double ear infection typically involves:
- Antibiotics: If the infection were bacterial, the doctor would recommend the patient take antibiotics. This is especially the case since it is considered dangerous to stop the intake of antibiotics before the end of their use, even if the signs of an illness are lessened.
- Pain Relievers: Non-prescription drugs such as acetaminophen (TYLENOL) or ibuprofen (ADVIS) are safe for mild pains and fever.
- Warm Compresses: Infants with severe earache can be relieved by putting a warm cloth on the affected ears.
- Hydration: This reduces the thickness of the liquid, which fills the air passages and allows it to be cleared more quickly.
- Decongestants and Antihistamines: These may be recommended for breaking down nasal congestion and/or assisting with opening the Eustachian tubes.
- Ear Drops: Very occasionally, the doctor may prescribe a few ear drops that contain an anesthetic or steroid to minimize the pain and inflammation.
When to Visit a Doctor?
The following are situations that will require one to seek the services of a doctor:
It’s essential to seek medical attention if:
- Symptoms last for more than a couple of days.
- The condition is defined as moderate to severe pain or discomfort.
- Earache and pain are found together with either the fluid or pus oozing out of the ears.
- This invariably indicates a relatively high temperature.
- Hearing loss occurs.
Prevention
Preventing double ear infections involves:
- Practicing good hand hygiene.
- Staying away from the areas which have secondhand smoker.
- Wondering if staying current on vaccines, such as the seasonal flu shot.
- Managing allergies effectively.
- All females still of child-bearing age should breastfeed their infants if they can because of their immunity-boosting factor.
Conclusion
A bilateral ear infection is when the two ears are infected simultaneously and is caused by bacteria or viruses. Some of these are earaches, fever, and hearing loss in both ears. Some signs may require antibiotic treatment regarding bacterial infections, analgesia, and either warm or cold pack treatment. If any of the symptoms persist or worsen, it is advised to get a medical help.
