Doctor warns that “acute otitis media” must be treated quickly, leaving it more dangerous than thought
Today (28 February 2023) Dr. Nattapong Wongwiwat Deputy Director General of the Medical Department The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) mentioned Acute otitis media that it is a disease that can occur in both children and adults with inflammation of the middle ear, which lies between the outer and inner ear The germ that causes inflammation can be a virus or a bacteria. Often found in conjunction with respiratory infections such as the common cold, influenza, strep throat, tonsillitis, which are often transmitted from the nose and sinuses. enters the middle ear through the Eustachian tube which is a tube that connects the nasopharynx to the middle ear
Dr. Nattapong said that acute otitis media if not treated This can cause water to build up in the middle ear or perforate the eardrum. Including various complications such as inflammation may result in inflammation of the mastoid cavity. inner ear inflammation Facial paralysis due to chronic inflammation resulting in swelling of the face can cause pressure on the facial nerves and problems with muscle control, meningitis is a rare complication. but very dangerous If the infection spreads to the meninges Or cause a brain abscess if the infection spreads to the brain.
side Dr. Nuttawat Pongchomporn medical professional Group of Medical Centers Specialized in Otolaryngology, Hospital (Hospital) Rajavithi 2 (Rangsit), said that acute otitis media There will be pain in the affected ear that may feel tight. Inside the ear or noise in the ear, tinnitus, hearing loss, such symptoms are often preceded by infections in the upper respiratory tract. Ear pain, fever, and tinnitus decrease after perforation of the eardrum and Pus has come out.
“Patients with chronic and progressive infections There will be a high fever, dizziness, loss of balance, etc. For treatment, it is divided into 1. Medication, including antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria that causes it, which should be taken for at least 10-14 days. Reduce swelling to cause the mucosa around the opening of the Eustachian tube to collapse swelling, painkillers, antipyretics, take as necessary. 2. Surgery to pierce the eardrum to drain the pus in the middle ear. It will greatly reduce ear pain. Often done in cases where drug treatment is ineffective. or there are complications and one treatment is Mastoidectomy is usually performed in cases where there is inflammation or pus buildup within the mastoid cavity. In the event that the symptoms do not improve after taking the drug, the fever does not decrease, severe headache, tinnitus, decreased hearing level Water or pus draining from the ear Should hurry to see an otolaryngologist immediately for proper diagnosis and further treatment, ”said Dr. Nuttawat.