In most cases, ear infections are relatively harmless. However, some types of ear infections can become dangerous if not treated appropriately. Even with basic home care, some types of ear infections can lead to complications that may affect your hearing, balance, and overall health. It can make a difference if people know whether they need immediate assistance from a healthcare professional like Dr Nikita Iyer, a leading ENT and vertigo doctor in Chembur, regarding their current ear infection status. Therefore, it is important to understand when it is time to seek medical assistance for your ear infection.
Ear infections are typically caused by bacteria or viruses, causing the inflammation of both the outer ear and the middle ear. The most common ear infections present with symptoms such as ear pressure, pain, sensation of fullness, muffling of sound, or a low-grade fever. Most often, these symptoms will improve within the first two to three days. However, if these symptoms worsen or do not begin to improve after three days, it may indicate the presence of another medical condition.
Here are some warning signs that may indicate a serious medical problem, and you should get checked out as soon as you recognise any of them.
You may have mild pain, but if you suddenly have intense pain or an increasing level of pain over time, it usually indicates a developing or spreading infection or a build-up of pressure behind your eardrum.
Some ear infections may cause low-grade fevers. However, if you have a high fever or if you have had a fever lasting more than 48 hours, it is advisable to get it examined, as it is very likely that your ear infection is not clearing up, and you will require medical treatment to resolve your ear infection.
Any fluid or pus that drains from your ear (clear, yellow, or bloody) is NOT a normal finding. Drainage may indicate a possible ruptured eardrum or a serious ear infection that needs to be evaluated by your doctor as soon as possible.
Temporary changes in hearing are common, but if you experience long-term hearing loss, ringing (tinnitus), or a blocked feeling in your ear, it is best to get your ear checked. Untreated infections can damage the delicate structure of the inner ear over time and may lead to hearing impairment.
The inner ear is essential for balance. If you have been experiencing dizziness, vertigo, or difficulty walking straight as a result of an ear infection, it may indicate a spread of infection further into the ear.
Swelling, redness, or tenderness usually indicates an advanced infection.
Not Treating an Ear Infection Can Lead to Serious Complications
Many serious complications that arise from delaying ear infections, for example, chronic ear infections, may lead to long-term hearing impairments and the spread of infection to adjacent areas.
Evaluation and treatment by an ENT will allow you to avoid future problems and heal more quickly
If an individual continues to experience symptoms of an ear infection after receiving their first course of treatment or if they are experiencing symptoms that are too severe for them to handle, you should take them to an ENT specialist for evaluation and treatment.
ENT specialists have the training and equipment to correctly assess the cause of the symptoms and prescribe a medication, monitor them, or take other actions as necessary.
When it comes to your hearing and comfort, do not delay scheduling a visit to Dr Nikita Iyer, a trusted ENT otorhinolaryngologist for the right diagnosis, peace of mind, and a clear action plan to restore health. Addressing your ear infection early can help preserve your hearing ability and help you return to your pre-illness state.