Bilateral purulent otitis in a child

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How to recognize and treat bilateral otitis media in children

Most often, a child is diagnosed with bilateral otitis media, this is due to the anatomical features of the structure of the auditory canals. According to the course of the disease, acute and chronic otitis media are distinguished, which often turns into purulent.

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Untimely or inadequate treatment of the disease can cause serious complications in the child, including complete hearing loss.

Causes of the disease

As already mentioned, infants are more often susceptible to the disease due to the structural features of the auditory tube (Eustachian), which, unlike adults, has an almost horizontal position. In addition, the child’s auditory tube is somewhat wider and shorter, so viruses from the nasopharynx easily enter the middle part of the ear through it.

Acute otitis media in a baby can also be caused by improper feeding. Mothers who feed their baby while lying down put him at risk; the milk mixture will pass into the Eustachian tube and cause bilateral otitis media, which can become purulent in just a day.

In addition, acute otitis media quite often occurs against the background of respiratory viral diseases, sore throat, and influenza, which can cause complications in the ENT organs. An integral symptom of ARVI is a runny nose and nasal congestion. The swelling of the child’s already narrow nasal passages leads to the fact that mucous secretions do not flow out, but pass through the nasopharynx and flow into the auditory tube, thereby provoking otitis media. Therefore, treatment of rhinitis in infants is mandatory.

Forms of the disease

Acute otitis, in both adults and children, can occur in the external, middle, or inner ear. The inflammatory process of the outer ear is provoked mainly by infections introduced mechanically (for example, when cleaning the ears) or streptococci that enter the body through contact or airborne droplets. In this case, redness of the skin is observed in the affected area, due to swelling, a narrowing of the auditory canal occurs, and translucent exudate often appears.

Acute and chronic

Otitis media can be acute or chronic depending on the course of the disease. Bilateral acute otitis occurs in stages - first, after infection, inflammation of the mucous tissues of the ear occurs, then purulent exudate (liquid) joins the process, and at the last stage, a breakthrough of the eardrum with the release of purulent discharge.

Catarrhal and purulent

Acute otitis media can be of two categories - catarrhal and purulent. The catarrhal form of acute otitis most often becomes a consequence of hypothermia, colds, and viral diseases, the symptoms of which are a runny nose. Mucous secretions, entering the Eustachian tube, infect the middle ear cavity.

Acute catarrhal otitis media in a child can become purulent in just 24 hours. Purulent otitis is characterized by discharged exudate that has a yellow-green color. Treatment for this form of the disease must be urgent, since purulent masses can spread to the brain and other ENT organs, and also lead to complete hearing loss.

Course of the disease

Acute bilateral otitis is an inflammation of the tympanic membrane, spreading to the eustachian tube and other nearby tissues. The course of the disease goes through several stages, each of which has its own symptomatic manifestations.

  1. The first stage is accompanied by congestion, noise, and ringing in the ears, which, as a rule, children do not complain about.
  2. At the second stage, an inflammatory process of the middle ear occurs, sharp pain appears, and body temperature rises.
  3. The third stage is characterized by severe shooting pains in the ears, radiating to the larynx and eyes, and the body temperature exceeds 38C.
  4. Further, there is a decrease in pain, but purulent discharge appears. If treatment is not carried out on time, there is a high risk of purulent masses penetrating into the brain area.
  5. At the fifth stage, as a rule, there is a process of active recovery, pain disappears completely, and inflammation subsides.

Determining otitis media in infants is not easy, but it is possible. Pay close attention to your baby's behavior. The child becomes restless, shakes and throws his head back, refuses to eat or suck the pacifier, as this causes him pain, he may vomit, even have diarrhea, and his body temperature will rise. To confirm their suspicions, parents should lightly press the “tragus” against the ear canal; when sick, the child reacts to this by intensifying crying and trying to dodge the source of pain.

At the first signs of the disease, parents should definitely contact a pediatrician or pediatric ENT specialist and begin treatment immediately.

Treatment

When prescribing treatment for young children, doctors prescribe antibacterial agents mainly for local use, since general antibiotics are difficult to tolerate by a child’s fragile body. Systemic drugs are prescribed to children only in case of ineffectiveness of local treatment or severe intoxication, which can be caused by purulent otitis media.

For topical use, ear drops are used:

  • Otipax – relieves pain and relieves inflammation;
  • Otofa is an antibacterial agent and is not used for rupture of the eardrum;
  • Polydexa is an anti-inflammatory antibacterial agent approved for use in children over 2.5 years of age.

In addition, it is important to normalize nasal breathing, so doctors prescribe vasoconstrictor nasal drops. In case of excessive hyperthermia (increased body temperature), it is necessary to take antipyretic drugs (Nurofen or regular Paracetamol). Treatment also involves physiotherapeutic procedures, such as warming up. However, it should be remembered that if the disease is purulent, you cannot warm your ears.

If parents did not react in a timely manner, and precious time was lost during the treatment of otitis, the disease can become chronic or cause serious complications.

Treatment of the disease takes place mainly at home. However, if complications are suspected, the baby is hospitalized, and in some cases surgical intervention is required. Timely provision of assistance will protect your children from problems in the future.

Source: http://nasmorklechit.ru/otity/dvustoronnij-otit-u-rebenka.html

How to recognize purulent otitis media in a child

Purulent otitis is quite common in children, and this disease is often recurrent. Provoking factors may be infectious diseases, a weakened immune system, or enlarged adenoids.

In any case, the symptoms of the disease should be the basis for contacting a specialist. Only a doctor can prescribe effective treatment that will help defeat this disease.

Purulent otitis in a child

This term refers to a purulent lesion of the middle ear, a component of the auditory system, the main link of which is the tympanic cavity. It is a small space in the temporal bone that is responsible for processing sound vibrations.

In the purulent form of otitis, the mucous membrane of the ear becomes inflamed, which is accompanied by the production and accumulation of pus. This type of disease is much more dangerous than catarrhal disease, as it can cause hearing loss and intracranial complications.

Causes

The main cause of the appearance of a purulent form of otitis is considered to be inflammation of the nasopharynx, the appearance of adenoids, chronic forms of rhinitis and acute respiratory viral infections. All these pathologies lead to excess mucus in the nose.

When you blow your nose too much, these secretions penetrate the Eustachian tube and block it. As a result, ventilation is impaired, which leads to infection and inflammatory damage to the ear mucosa.

When inflammatory fluid is secreted, the child experiences pain and hearing loss. Bacteria that penetrate the middle ear begin to actively develop. As a result, after a few days or even hours, the baby develops purulent discharge.

Illustration of changes in the ear during purulent otitis media

Then his health seriously deteriorates - the temperature rises, the pain syndrome increases. When there is strong pressure on the eardrum, it ruptures, causing pus to leak out.

This disease is diagnosed much more often in children than in adults. This is due to objective reasons:

  1. The Eustachian tube in a child is much narrower than in an adult. Therefore, violations of its patency occur much more often.
  2. Many children have enlarged adenoids. These formations lead to compression of the Eustachian tube, which makes the lumen in it much smaller.
  3. Children are more likely than adults to suffer from acute viral infections.

In addition, there are additional factors that significantly increase the risk of developing purulent otitis media in a child. These include the following:

  • hypothermia;
  • lack of vitamins;
  • prolonged use of antibacterial drugs;
  • penetration of fluid into the ear;
  • decrease in the body's defenses.

Symptoms

The appearance of purulent otitis in children is accompanied by severe pain in the ears. This symptom is accompanied by constant tearfulness. The pain may be cutting, aching or throbbing.

At night, discomfort increases significantly, causing sleep disturbances. In addition, children often experience the following symptoms:

  • pale skin;
  • general weakness;
  • hearing loss;
  • purulent discharge with bloody impurities;
  • temperature increase.

If you ask your baby what exactly hurts, he will point to his ear. It is much more difficult to identify pathology in infants.

With purulent otitis, newborn babies cry constantly and have serious problems with sleep. The following symptoms may also appear:

  • refusal to eat;
  • the occurrence of gag reflexes;
  • the child's attempts to lie on his side, where the affected ear is located.

How to recognize

The doctor identifies the disease based on complaints, medical history and otoscopy data. The following types of studies are usually prescribed:

  1. General examination, endoscopic examination of the ear cavity, nose and nasopharynx - usually performed after cleaning the canals.
  2. Audiological and vestibular examination.
  3. Valsalva maneuver - in this case, the exudate is pushed into the ear canal.
  4. Laboratory analysis of secretions - carried out to assess susceptibility to antimicrobial agents.
  5. Assessment of the state of immunity.
  6. Computed tomography and radiography.
There are a number of types of purulent otitis in children, each of which is characterized by certain features.

Spicy

The acute form of the disease is accompanied by severe pain and leads to the appearance of purulent discharge in the ear cavity. If adequate treatment is not started immediately, there is a risk of the process becoming chronic. It is characterized by persistent damage to the eardrum. The child's hearing may also gradually decrease.

Double sided

This form of purulent otitis is characterized by inflammatory damage to both ears. This is a very serious disease that poses a particular danger to young children.

Almost 90% of all otitis media are bilateral. After a few years, the number of such diseases decreases. This is due to the development of the hearing aid.

Recurrent

This diagnosis is made if a second disease occurs within a short period of time after the first one. It is the result of improper therapy or violations of doctor’s recommendations. Also, inflammation of the adenoids often leads to relapses.

Treatment

To cope with the pathology and prevent the development of dangerous complications and hearing loss, it is necessary to diagnose the pathology in a timely manner. Treatment should be selected by a doctor depending on the stage of the disease and its manifestations, and how long to treat it depends on the stage and complexity of the disease.

Medication

For purulent otitis, especially in children under 3 years of age, antibiotics are usually prescribed. Such medications can be used in the form of tablets, injections or suspensions - it all depends on the age of the patient and the stage of the disease.

Penicillins, as well as their combinations with clavulanic acid, are most often used to treat this form of the disease.

The most effective drugs include amoxicillin, augmentin, amoxiclav, etc.

If penicillins cannot be used or treatment with them does not produce results, cephalosporins are prescribed - ceftriaxone, cefazolin.

If the above remedies are ineffective or allergic reactions are present, doctors prescribe macrolides. The most popular drugs in this category include azithromycin and clarithromycin.

If a child has purulent otitis, he must be prescribed vasoconstrictor nasal drops. With their help, it is possible to cope with swelling of the mucous membrane and make the lumen of the auditory tube wider. Doctors usually prescribe galazolin, otrivin, naphthyzin.

In case of intense pain, anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed - paracetamol or ibuprofen. These drugs also help reduce fever. The doctor may prescribe tablets, syrup or suppositories.

If there is no perforation of the eardrum, drops are prescribed in the ear. Otipax has excellent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. This harmless drug can be used even for infants.

If a child has a chronic form of purulent otitis, he is indicated for the use of immunomodulators. These include Viferon, biological products, and restorative medications.

Traditional methods

Before using any folk remedy at home, you should definitely consult a pediatrician and otolaryngologist.

When purulent otitis appears, a lot of foods with vitamin C should be included in the baby’s diet. It helps strengthen the immune system and ensures a quick recovery. This substance is present in kiwi, sweet pepper, and citrus fruits.

An excellent remedy for this form of otitis is a decoction made from raspberry roots. It has pronounced anti-inflammatory properties.

The rhizome needs to be crushed, take 3 tablespoons of raw material and add 1 liter of boiling water. The product must be infused for 12 hours. Take 3/4 cup twice a day for a month. During this time, the damaged membranes will heal successfully.

Frequent purulent otitis in a child, what to do?

If a child often has such problems, you need to establish the reasons for their occurrence. Quite often this is caused by immune failure. Therefore, treatment is carried out by introducing gamma globulins, ascorbic acid, lysozyme, etc.

During the period of remission, blowing of the auditory tubes is often prescribed. Massage of the eardrum may also be performed. If necessary, punctures are performed to eliminate sinusitis. The doctor may prescribe a tonsillotomy or removal of the adenoids.

An experienced doctor will tell you how to avoid complications with purulent otitis media in our video:

Prevention

To prevent the occurrence of purulent otitis, you need to engage in its prevention. It includes a number of components:

  • prevention of viral infections;
  • strengthening the immune system;
  • water procedures;
  • proper nutrition;
  • timely treatment of nasopharyngeal diseases.

Purulent otitis media is considered a very dangerous disorder that can cause hearing loss. To prevent this from happening, you need to contact a specialist in time and strictly adhere to his recommendations.

Source: http://gidmed.com/otorinolarintologija/zabolevanija-lor/bolezni-uha/otit/kak-raspoznat-gnojnyj-u-rebenka.html

How to treat childhood bilateral otitis media: stages of the disease and medications

Colds and hypothermia are the main causes of inflammation in the middle ear. Bilateral otitis in a child is one of the types of the disease. Inflammation develops mainly in winter, when the child is more susceptible to viral infections.

Causes of the disease and risk factors

An acute form of inflammation of the middle ear develops at any age, but bilateral otitis in a child most often occurs before the age of 6 years. Among the causative agents of the disease, bacteria predominate (more than 90%), mainly pneumococcus, hemolytic streptococcus, Moraxella catarrhalis. Mixed infection was found in 66% of cases.

Factors contributing to the occurrence of bilateral otitis media:

  • ARVI, influenza, measles, diphtheria, scarlet fever, tonsillitis and other infectious diseases.
  • Allergic reactions, exudative diathesis.
  • Pathologies of the respiratory system, especially the nose and throat.
  • Weak immune defense of the body.
  • Damage to the drum membrane.

Unfavorable situations for the health of a child’s hearing organ occur when swimming in polluted natural bodies of water or walking in the rain. In the pool, water with chlorine that gets into the ears and nose has a negative effect. Other provoking conditions: diseases of the nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses and nasopharynx. Injuries can contribute to infection and inflammation of the middle ear mucosa. The risk increases in case of damage to the eardrum and weakening of the body's defenses in severe illnesses.

Development of bilateral inflammation

The causative agents of otitis media enter through the nasopharynx and Eustachian tube. Pneumococci and other pathogenic microbes produce waste products, they mix with leukocytes and turn into purulent masses.

The infection develops in the small space behind the eardrum. The Eustachian tube becomes inflamed and prevents fluid from flowing freely from the ear canal. The accumulated pus bursts the eardrum, causing severe pain.

If a baby reaches with both hands to his head, cries, or has a high temperature, then parents may suspect bilateral otitis media. An older child may report hearing worse or experiencing pain or itching in the ears. For an accurate diagnosis, you should consult a specialist. The pediatric otolaryngologist takes into account the whole range of signs and uses an otoscope to examine the reddened and swollen tympanic membrane.

Stages of bilateral otitis media

The catarrhal type of the disease is manifested only by redness, swelling and intermittent ear pain radiating to the cheeks, temples, and neck. The intensity of inflammation and the resulting sensations depends on the age of the child. Unlike the catarrhal form, exudative otitis media in children is accompanied by purulent or serous discharge.

Serous otitis media occurs as an acute inflammation of the middle ear with the formation of mucus in the tympanic cavity. The disease often takes a chronic form: the ear begins to hurt after cooling, with a mild cold, or inhaling polluted air.

Symptoms of bilateral exudative otitis in a child, depending on the phase of the inflammatory process:

  1. At the first stage, ear pain appears, hearing is weakened, body temperature rises, fatigue, weakness, and lethargy occur.
  2. In the second stage, the eardrum is perforated in one ear or both; The child’s pain and temperature subsides, and hearing loss persists.
  3. At the third stage, ear discharge and pain stop, hearing is restored, and the perforation in the eardrum is scarred.

A purulent type of bilateral otitis media in a child is more common when the immune system is weakened. The malaise is manifested by headache, weakness and dizziness. The pain in the ears is aching at first, then intensifies. Shooting pains appear in the evening or at night.

The formation of mucus or purulent masses is directly related to inflammation of the middle ear. Fluids cannot always break through the eardrum on their own. To facilitate this process, paracentesis is performed in the doctor's office. The specialist makes a puncture under local anesthesia and uses a special instrument. A point on the eardrum is selected that is most favorable for the release of pus. The artificial hole heals faster.

Treatment of bilateral otitis media

In the absence of proper treatment, inflammation of the middle ear often becomes chronic. The eardrum becomes thinner, retracted and damaged in different places. This threatens hearing loss, and if the situation develops unfavorably, complete deafness.

Treatment of bilateral otitis in a child at the first stage consists of using nasal drops to facilitate breathing and restore communication between the middle ear and the nasal cavity. When the temperature rises to 38–38.5°C, an antipyretic with ibuprofen is given. After consultation with the doctor, ear drops Anauron, Candibiotic, Otipax, Otofa or Sofradex are instilled.

A product based on antibiotics and an anesthetic component (lidocaine). Drops are used only until mucus or pus appears from the ear canal. Used to treat children over 1 year of age.

A combination product with antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, antifungal and analgesic components. Drops are not used if the child is under 6 years old and has a hole in the eardrum.

The product has anti-inflammatory and analgesic components. These drops are used to relieve pain from otitis media, but are contraindicated after a hole in the eardrum occurs.

Antibacterial drug for local treatment of exudative otitis media. Eliminates the cause of the inflammatory process, facilitates communication between the tympanic cavity and the Eustachian tube and nose.

The drug contains antibiotics, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic substances. Not applicable until age 1 year. Drops are contraindicated in case of perforation of the eardrum.

Treatment of exudative otitis in children with antibiotics begins from the moment the first signs appear in children under 2 years of age. If inflammation of the middle ear begins in a child older than 2 years, the doctor may delay antibiotic therapy for 72 hours. During this time, it becomes clear how seriously ill the baby is.

Typically, pediatricians prescribe amoxicillin twice a day, 40 mg per 1 kg of body weight. If there is no improvement, the specialist changes amoxicillin or azithromycin to cefuroxime 72 hours after the start of treatment. Antibacterial treatment lasts on average 10 days.

Source: http://zdorovyedetei.ru/uxo-gorlo-nos/uxo/chem-lechit-detskij-dvustoronnij-otit-etapy-zabolevaniya-i-preparaty.html

Purulent otitis in children, its characteristics and treatment

According to some data, 80% of children under three years of age face a problem such as purulent otitis media. Due to the prevalence of the disease, it is necessary to learn about its causes, treatment and preventive measures.

Purulent otitis, its features and differences

Purulent otitis is a disease accompanied by inflammation of the mucous membrane and the formation of pus in the middle ear cavity. The inflammatory process occurs due to changes in pressure. In children, this can happen when mucus blocks the ear canal, also called the eustachian tube. Suppurative otitis media develops when bacteria from the Eustachian tube enter the middle ear cavity and begin to multiply there, contributing to the formation of pus. Discharge from the ear indicates a ruptured eardrum, also called a perforation.

Perforation in itself is not dangerous. During healing, a small scar forms at the site of the breakthrough, which does not affect hearing in any way.

Purulent otitis media occurs in the middle ear

Types of purulent otitis media

Purulent otitis media occurs:

  • external or middle;
  • acute or chronic;
  • bilateral;
  • recurrent.

How does otitis externa differ from otitis media?

Depending on the location of the inflammatory process, purulent otitis externa and purulent media differ. External occurs in the auricle and/or ear canal due to mechanical damage and infection in wounds. The cause of purulent otitis media is bacteria that enter the middle ear cavity and cause inflammatory processes.

Acute purulent otitis media occurs with severe pain and the formation of pus in the ear cavity. Due to improper treatment, it can become chronic. It is characterized by permanent damage to the eardrum, persistent or intermittent leakage from the external auditory canal, and progressive hearing loss.

Due to the closure of the Eustachian tube, pus accumulates from the middle ear cavity

Danger of bilateral and recurrent disease

Bilateral purulent otitis is characterized by the presence of an inflammatory process in both ears.

Recurrent purulent otitis media occurs when a second disease occurs within a short period of time after the first one. It occurs due to improper treatment and non-compliance with the recommendations of the otolaryngologist. Relapse can also be caused by inflamed adenoids. Therefore, for regularly recurring otitis media, doctors recommend removing them.

Causes of the disease

As an independent disease, purulent otitis media rarely occurs. More often it is a complication after ARVI, tonsillitis, and various inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract. Children are most susceptible to otitis media, including purulent ones. There are a number of reasons for this:

  1. The physiological structure of a child’s ear differs from the structure of an adult’s ear. The Eustachian tube is narrower in children, so it is easier to clog with mucus. In addition, it is at an angle that facilitates the penetration of bacteria.
  2. In childhood, a common problem is adenoiditis (chronic inflammation of the pharyngeal tonsil). Anatomically, the adenoids are located close to the Eustachian tube. As they increase, they can compress it and change the pressure in the ear, which leads to inflammatory processes.
  3. Children more often than adults suffer from colds, which are accompanied by the formation of large amounts of mucus. Crying and sniffling contribute to the penetration of secretions into the auditory tube, which, in turn, can lead to otitis media.

We recognize the problem early

Symptoms of purulent otitis media include:

  • pain in one ear or in both ears with bilateral damage;
  • increased body temperature;
  • decreased hearing acuity;
  • purulent discharge from the ear.

If a child cries and often touches his ear, then he should be seen by a doctor.

In the case of children who are not yet able to speak, it is difficult to accurately determine the symptoms. Parents can guess what is bothering their baby only by their behavior. If he cries often, refuses to eat, wakes up at night, and rubs his ear, then you need to consult an otolaryngologist. A good way to determine if your baby has ear pain is to press on the tragus (the small protrusion at the beginning of the ear canal) when the baby is in a calm mood. If there is inflammation, such actions will cause pain to the baby, and he will react accordingly.

Treatment methods

The problem of purulent otitis media must be taken seriously. It can be successfully treated using methods used in modern medical practice. Folk remedies are also ways to alleviate the baby’s condition, increase immunity and speed up the healing process.

Traditional medicine

Drug treatment is carried out in different directions. Medicines prescribed by a doctor are designed to fight bacteria, relieve pain, relieve swelling, reduce inflammation and reduce fever.

To relieve pain, reduce fever and reduce inflammation, drugs based on paracetamol and ibuprofen are used. They come in syrup (for example, Panadol and Nurofen) or tablets (Rapidol), depending on the age of the child. To relieve ear pain, ear drops are prescribed, for example, Otipax or Sofradex.

For severe pain, your doctor may recommend perforating the eardrum. This procedure reduces the pressure in the ear, releasing accumulated pus and significantly reducing pain.

To reduce swelling during purulent otitis, it is necessary to apply vasoconstrictor drops. They help dilate the Eustachian tube, thereby reducing pressure in the middle ear. In this case, the drugs must be suitable for the child in terms of age and form of release. Nazol, Naphthyzin, Farmazolin and other drops are often prescribed.

Are antibiotics important?

Although in 80% of cases purulent otitis media passes without complications, there remain 20% that can cause serious consequences, including purulent meningitis. Therefore, treatment of purulent otitis is impossible without antibiotics. They are designed to kill pathogenic bacteria that cause inflammation and cause the formation of pus. The drug Augmentin has proven itself well in the treatment of children.

When treating with antibiotics, it is important that they not only work, but accumulate in sufficient quantities in the ear cavity. Therefore, the drug is taken for a long time and in large doses.

Folk recipes

There are many folk recipes that help effectively and safely fight purulent otitis media in children. However, treatment without consulting a doctor can lead to disastrous consequences. Therefore, be sure to consult with a pediatrician and otolaryngologist before using traditional methods.

Children with purulent otitis media are recommended to include more foods containing vitamin C in their diet. It strengthens the immune system and speeds up recovery. The content of ascorbic acid is especially high in rose hips and hawthorn, citrus fruits, kiwi, black currants, herbs and sweet peppers. If the child’s age and time of year allow, then you need to eat grapes as much as possible. It gives the body a lot of energy necessary to recover from illness.

For purulent otitis, a decoction of raspberry roots helps well. They have a strong anti-inflammatory effect. They are finely chopped and three tablespoons of raw material are poured with 1 liter of boiling water and left for 12 hours. You need to drink the decoction 2 times a day, 3/4 cup for a month. During this time, even persistent damage to the eardrum heals safely.

To cleanse the external auditory canal from pus, use tampons moistened with an infusion of chamomile flowers. To prepare it, pour 1 teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers into a glass of boiling water, leave for a minute, filter and remove dirt in the ear canal using a bandage or cotton wool. Fresh plantain juice is also used for these purposes.

After cleansing the ear canal, you can place a wick moistened with wild garlic juice in the ear. Another name for the plant is bear onion. It has bactericidal, antiseptic and analgesic properties. This should be done 2 times a day for an hour.

Common mistakes made by parents

Often, out of ignorance and with the best intentions, parents commit actions that lead to a deterioration in the child’s condition. In order to avoid complications, you need to know what not to do with purulent otitis media.

  1. If there is purulent discharge, nothing should be dripped into the child’s ear without a doctor’s prescription. The eardrum is damaged, and medications or other means used in traditional treatment, getting into the middle ear cavity, can lead to serious consequences. Remember, any fluid leaking from the ear is a reason to urgently consult a doctor.
  2. Under no circumstances should you heat your ear if you have purulent otitis media. Heat will promote the proliferation of microorganisms, which will only lead to a worsening of the baby’s condition.

Dangerous consequences for the child

The danger of purulent otitis lies in the consequences it can cause. If you delay treatment, irreparable damage to the auditory ossicles or auditory nerve is possible, which leads to partial or complete hearing loss. In especially severe cases, pus penetrates into the cavity of the inner ear and can cause purulent meningitis. Therefore, timely and correct treatment is the key to a complete recovery.

Hearing loss in children for 1–3 months after otitis media is normal.

Prevention of the disease

Speaking about prevention, first of all, we need to talk about raising the immunity of children. Purulent otitis media usually occurs as a complication after acute respiratory viral infection. Therefore, by strengthening your child’s health and protecting him from illness, you will take care of preventing ear problems.

If the baby is sick, then it is necessary to create conditions under which the mucus that has entered the Eustachian tube will not dry out and clog the passage. To do this, you need to give the child more to drink, which will help thin the mucus and let it out through the nasopharynx. Favorable external conditions of the room in which the baby is located will also help. Cool, moist air will prevent mucus from thickening and drying out and will promote a speedy recovery for the child.

Komarovsky's video

Evgeny Olegovich Komarovsky talks in detail and clearly about otitis media, including purulent ones.

If your child has an earache, then you need to take two actions: put vasoconstrictor drops in the nose and show the baby to the doctor. Only after a specialist has made an accurate diagnosis can the prescribed treatment begin.

Source: http://babyzzz.ru/0-1/health/11633.html

Symptoms and treatment of purulent otitis in a child

Purulent otitis media occurs in every third young child. Typically, this pathology is quite severe and is accompanied by the appearance of many unfavorable symptoms. This article will help you understand how to cope with this disease.

Causes

The inflammatory process that affects the middle ear cavity often leads to the development of purulent otitis media.

A variety of reasons can cause this form of the disease. The most common of these are bacterial infections. Currently, there is a huge variety of bacteria that can lead to the formation of pus in the middle ear cavity.

This pathology can be either primary or appear as a result of complications of other bacterial infections.

In a newborn baby, there are certain features of the development of purulent otitis media. They are associated with the presence of special myxoid tissue in the middle ear cavity. This element is quite sensitive to the development of bacterial inflammation and the appearance of severe swelling.

Myxoid tissue disappears only at the end of the first month of the baby’s life. It can remain for a longer time only in premature and weakened babies. In such babies it usually persists for 6-12 months of their life. This clinical situation leads to persistent persistence of unfavorable symptoms in an infant for quite a long time.

Certain structural features of the Eustachian tube in children also lead to the development of the disease. This structural element, which is part of the ear, is shorter in children. This feature contributes to a more rapid spread of the inflammatory process to all nearby organs. The size of the Eustachian tube increases as the child grows.

Taking into account the duration of the onset of adverse symptoms, doctors identify several clinical variants of this disease. The first developed disease is called acute. As a rule, in children, various bacterial and, much less frequently, viral or fungal infections lead to the development of this clinical variant.

Chronization of the process ensures the transition of the acute form to the chronic form. This variant of the disease is very unfavorable. It is accompanied by a succession of periods of complete well-being and exacerbations.

In most cases, the inflammatory process affects only one side. Bilateral purulent otitis is much less common.

Pediatric otolaryngologists also identify recurrent forms of the disease. In this case, exacerbations of the disease occur over a fairly short period of time.

Frequent deterioration in the baby’s well-being should alert parents. As a rule, recurrent purulent otitis media is a manifestation of a severe disruption of the immune system.

An infection can enter the middle ear cavity in a variety of ways. The most common option is through the Eustachian tube. In this situation, pathogenic microorganisms enter the ear cavity through the existing anatomical connections with the nose.

Improper hygiene procedures contribute to the penetration of secondary infection from the external environment through the outer ear. The spread of bacteria through the blood occurs in the presence of a primary focus of the disease, which can be located in different internal organs.

Congenital forms of purulent otitis are much less common. In this case, infection occurs during the period of intrauterine development. Predominantly staphylococcal or streptococcal bacterial flora contributes to the appearance of unfavorable symptoms of the disease in infants.

Anaerobic microorganisms lead to intrauterine infection of the fetus much less frequently.

Congenital purulent otitis in newborn babies is often bilateral.

Symptoms

Purulent otitis media can manifest itself in different ways. The severity of clinical signs depends on the child’s initial state of health. Weakened children suffer this disease most severely.

The well-being of newborn children suffering from purulent otitis media suffers significantly. Quite often, sick children are treated in a hospital setting.

The classic manifestation of this disease is pain in the ears. With a unilateral process, pain manifests itself on only one side.

The spread of infection to the other half of the face contributes to the appearance of pain there. The severity of the sensation of pain can vary and depends on whether this form of the disease is acute or chronic.

Acute inflammation is characterized by the appearance of severe pain. Many children note that the nature of the pain can be “shooting.”

Severe inflammation leads to a significant increase in body temperature. In most cases it reaches 38-39.5. A more severe course of the disease is accompanied by an increase in body temperature above 40 degrees.

The inflammatory process in the middle ear leads to severe hearing loss. If the child has only a one-sided lesion, then he hears speech and distinguishes voices.

With a bilateral process, hearing is significantly impaired. Children attending school or other educational institutions cannot attend classes because they experience significant difficulties in recognizing sounds.

The sick child looks very bad. A pronounced inflammatory process leads to the baby feeling severe weakness and fatigue. Sick children eat poorly, their appetite decreases significantly or even completely disappears.

Infants begin to refuse breastfeeding and attach rather poorly to the mother's breast.

Exacerbation of purulent chronic otitis usually proceeds somewhat easier. In some babies, the disease can develop even without a significant increase in body temperature.

Babies feel “gurgling” or “transfusion” in the area of ​​the affected ear. This symptom often worsens when changing body position.

Congestion in the affected ear during exacerbation of chronic otitis usually has increasing intensity. In some children, suppuration becomes almost permanent.

The amount of liquid released from the ear may vary. The long course of the disease contributes to the development of persistent impairment of sound perception.

Many children note that they feel severe itching in the affected ear, which brings them severe discomfort. Also, a sick child develops increased sensitivity to any tactile touch of the affected area.

The course of the disease is complicated by the appearance of a headache that appears on the side of the damaged ear.

The behavior of a sick child changes significantly. The baby becomes more lethargic and capricious. Quite often, a child loses his usual interest in his favorite toys.

Children begin to rub the affected ear more against the pillow, as they feel severe itching. Very young children often touch the affected ear. This symptom should alert parents and motivate them to consult a doctor with their child.

Diagnostics

Diagnostic measures and treatment of purulent otitis are carried out by a pediatric otolaryngologist. To determine the inflammatory process in the ear cavity, the doctor conducts an extensive clinical examination and examination using a special medical instrument. This test is called otoscopy. This visual test can determine the presence of pus in the middle ear cavity.

Laboratory tests are required to determine the cause of the disease.

With purulent otitis, the normal values ​​of the general blood test change significantly. A huge number of leukocytes appear in it, the leukocyte formula changes, and the ESR also increases.

In some cases, pediatric otolaryngologists carry out bacterial culture of the contents obtained from the cavity of the affected ear. This test is very specific and allows you to accurately identify the infectious pathogen.

A significant disadvantage of this study is the duration of the analysis. Results from this laboratory test may take 5-7 days to return.

Consequences

Purulent otitis media is quite often dangerous. The most severe course is observed in very young children. The spread of inflammation leads to damage to nearby organs.

The most dangerous complication of the disease is the entry of pus into the meninges. This condition leads to the development of meningitis or meningoencephalitis.

A common complication of purulent otitis media is hearing loss. In the most severe cases, the disturbance in the perception of sounds can be significantly expressed. This symptom may result in complete hearing loss.

In children, this can lead to decreased memory and intelligence. In young children, this pathological condition contributes to a pronounced lag in mental development.

The transition to the anatomical structures of the inner ear is also a fairly common complication of purulent otitis. This pathological condition is called labyrinthitis.

The severe course of this pathology can lead to the development of the most dangerous complications, manifested by damage to the bone tissue of the temporal bone and even paralysis of the facial nerve.

Treatment

Therapy for purulent otitis can be carried out using various medications. The most common treatment method is medication.

To achieve a good effect from the therapy, the use of a whole complex of various means is required. The purpose of taking these drugs is to eliminate all unfavorable symptoms and improve hearing.

The basic method of treatment is the prescription of antibacterial drugs. These funds are assigned to a course appointment. To eliminate all adverse symptoms, 7-10 days are usually sufficient.

Elimination of pathogenic microorganisms from the cavity of the affected ears is an important strategic goal of therapy. For this purpose, antibiotics are used that have a wide spectrum of action.

Antibacterial agents can be administered in different ways. For moderate cases of the disease, medications are used in the form of tablets or suspensions.

Severe forms of the disease require antibiotics in the form of injections. The most commonly prescribed drugs include: Amoxicillin, Augmentin, Flemoxin, Cefuroxime and others. The frequency, course dosage and duration of treatment are determined by the attending physician.

Purulent otitis media quite often occurs after a prolonged runny nose. To normalize nasal breathing in this situation, vasoconstrictor nasal drops or sprays are prescribed. They are prescribed for 4-5 days, 2-3 times a day. These agents also improve the pressure in the Eustachian tube, which leads to a reduction in swelling. These drugs include: Sanorin, Galazolin, Nazol, Otrivin and others.

To normalize high body temperature, various antipyretics are used. In pediatric practice, drugs based on paracetamol or ibuprofen are most often used.

These medications have a lower risk of developing unwanted side effects. These drugs should be used when body temperature rises above 38 degrees.

Quite often, various ear drops are used to treat purulent forms of otitis at home. They help eliminate pain that occurs in the affected ear, and also have a pronounced antiseptic effect.

Quite often, various ear drops are used to treat purulent forms of otitis at home. They help eliminate pain that occurs in the affected ear, and also have a pronounced antiseptic effect.

Course use of these drugs also has a strong anti-inflammatory effect. The following drugs are used in pediatric practice: Otipax, Sofradex, Otofa.

Purulent forms of the disease are quite common in children with signs of immunodeficiency. To restore optimal functioning of the immune system, doctors prescribe specific medications to sick children.

"Viferon" and multivitamin complexes, when used in a course, will allow you to achieve a lasting positive effect.

Fathers and mothers must remember that the use of all medications must be agreed upon with the attending physician.

Many of the drugs that are used for treatment cannot be used if there is a perforation (pathological hole) in the eardrum. This clinical condition can occur quite often with purulent otitis media. The most dangerous in this case are ear drops that are applied topically.

In some cases, conservative drug therapy does not achieve an effect. In this situation, surgical treatment may be required. Such operations can reduce excess pressure inside the ear cavity, as well as eliminate severe inflammation. Such surgical treatment is carried out by pediatric otolaryngologists.

In some cases, conservative drug therapy does not achieve an effect. In this situation, surgical treatment may be required. Such operations can reduce excess pressure inside the ear cavity, as well as eliminate severe inflammation. Such surgical treatment is carried out by pediatric otolaryngologists.

Removing pus from the ear cavity is called a puncture. It is performed by a doctor using a special instrument. Local anesthesia is used for pain relief.

After completing the entire procedure, a gauze turunda soaked in a solution of disinfectants is inserted into the affected ear. After the operation, doctors recommend that the child not wet the ear for several days and prescribe a number of medications that help to finally cope with the inflammation.

Physiotherapy plays an important role in the treatment of chronic purulent otitis. Methods of such therapy can eliminate severe inflammation in the area of ​​the affected ear, and also have a positive effect on the immune system.

Physiotherapeutic methods of treatment are used already during the period of subsidence of the acute period of the disease, when there is no longer any purulent discharge from the ear. Laser therapy, UHF therapy and pneumomassage of the eardrum are the most common methods used in the treatment of purulent otitis in children of different ages.

You can learn more about how to treat otitis media from Dr. Komarovsky in the following video.

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What to do with bilateral otitis media in a child

Middle ear diseases in children are quite common. Bilateral otitis media occurs in a child at any age. In newborns, due to the anatomical features of the ear, inflammation rapidly gains strength. The causes of the disease are common to all inflammatory processes - viruses and bacteria. Treatment of bilateral otitis is complex, aimed at combating intoxication and microbes.

Bilateral otitis in a child

Causes of bilateral otitis media

Bilateral otitis in children is more common before the age of three. During this period, the auditory (Eustachian) tube did not form bends that could prevent the penetration of infection. At a younger age, the development of the facial skull begins during puberty, when the anatomy of the auditory tube and middle ear undergoes changes. Doctors identify the following causes of bilateral otitis media in children:

  1. the short and straight Eustachian tube does not serve as a barrier to pathogenic flora. Acute or chronic rhinitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis are often complicated by bilateral otitis media.
  2. Weakness of the nervous system when the newborn has a pronounced gag reflex. This is important when feeding, especially when the mother, after latching on to the breast, immediately settles the baby into the crib. The contents of the stomach enter the auditory tube and the tympanic cavity.
  3. The eardrum in children is stronger than in adults, so the accumulated exudate in the middle ear cavity is not able to break through the rough connective tissue. As a result, bilateral exudative otitis media develops.
  4. The mucous membrane of the tympanic cavity is underdeveloped, loose, with a lack of villi. Because of this, exudate accumulates, supporting a two-way inflammatory process.

Weakened immunity and frequent hypothermia affect the rapid development of ear inflammation. Catarrhal otitis appears due to a violation of the outflow of mucus through the auditory tube. Incomplete antibiotic treatment is considered an important cause of chronic bilateral inflammation. The chaotic use of drugs causes drug resistance in microbes.

Symptoms of bilateral otitis media

General symptoms of bilateral otitis media in children appear at the beginning of the disease. Newborns are inactive, do not breastfeed well, and often burp. Children over three years old complain of headache, weakness, fatigue, and have no desire to play. These symptoms are caused by intoxication and elevated body temperature. Bilateral otitis media in a child causes the following symptoms:

  • pain and noise in the ears;
  • hearing loss (hearing impairment);
  • sensation of clicking in the ears when swallowing;
  • nasal congestion;
  • rhinorrhea (nasal discharge).

Bilateral catarrhal otitis media is characterized by transient hearing loss. It is caused by swelling of the mucous membrane of the auditory tube, without fluid accumulation. Exudative otitis is accompanied by rhinorrhea, difficulty breathing due to fluid discharge from the auditory tube into the nasal cavity. A bilateral purulent process leads to intoxication, fever, persistent hearing loss, and sometimes perforation of the eardrum.

Treatment with folk remedies

Dr. Komarovsky strongly recommends eliminating intoxication by drinking plenty of fluids. For this, teas with raspberries, rowan berries, rose hips, and linden leaves are used. They have a diuretic effect and supply the body with vitamins and microelements. The development of acute catarrhal inflammation in the ear can be stopped at home. But bilateral purulent otitis media is treated in a hospital, and folk remedies are used only as additional treatment.

Bilateral otitis media is always treated with nasal rinses. This is necessary to relieve swelling of the mucous membrane and improve the outflow of fluid through the auditory tube. Use beet juice 2 drops 4 times a day. The child’s nasal cavity is washed with a solution of 1% sea water 3-4 times a day. A mixture of aloe, onion and lemon juice kills bacteria and stimulates the work of epithelial villi. Inject 2 drops 3-4 times into each nostril.

For bilateral otitis, inhalation with sea water and mint leaves relieves irritation of the nasal and pharyngeal mucosa. Humid air nourishes the epithelium and improves blood circulation. A solution of propolis with honey has a good effect. Add 3 teaspoons of honey and 3 grams of propolis. The child breathes in vapors of the mixture 4-5 times a day for 1 week.

Drug treatment

Treatment of bilateral otitis media in children should begin with nasal drops. The vasoconstrictor component of the drugs eliminates swelling and eliminates fluid secretion. Children can use Dlynos, Nazol, Otrivin, Galazolin, 2 drops in each nostril 3-4 times a day. It is also useful to rinse your nose with Aquamaris and Sanorin drops according to the same scheme. They contain sea water and a vasoconstrictor component.

Ear drops Tsipromed and Otofa have a bactericidal and antiseptic effect. Children are given 3 drops in each ear 3 times a day. In acute bilateral catarrhal otitis media, an intra-auricular compress is widely used. A tampon soaked in 90% ethyl alcohol and glycerin in equal parts is inserted into the ear canal. The compress has an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect and should be left in the ear for at least a day.

The child has an earache. What if it’s otitis media? What are recognized

The child has an earache. What if it’s otitis media? What are recognized

http://dokmag.ru/ — Medical devices from the Dokto company

http://dokmag.ru/ — Medical devices from the Dokto company

In case of fever, leukocytosis with a shift to the left, systemic antibiotics are prescribed. Bilateral purulent otitis in a child occurs with the accumulation of exudate in the middle ear. Pus can perforate (make a hole) the eardrum. The child is prescribed non-toxic cephalosporin antibiotics (Ceftriaxone, Cefotaxime, Cefoperazone) intravenously 2 times a day, and the dosage depends on age.

Surgery

Surgical treatment of bilateral inflammation of the middle ear is aimed at removing exudate from the tympanic cavity. In the initial stages of the process, when eustachitis begins, blowing of the auditory tubes is used. A thin catheter is inserted into the lumen of the tube and air is pumped in. Due to the painfulness of the procedure in children, some doctors have refused this treatment.

According to a similar principle, in the case of bilateral exudative otitis media, not air is administered, but a mixture of Hydrocortisone and 0.05% Naphazoline solution. This medicine reduces exudation and constricts blood vessels in the auditory tube. Used for catarrhal bilateral otitis, when there is no purulent content.

When a child has bilateral purulent otitis, the eardrum during otoscopy (instrumental examination of the ear) is sharply swollen and hyperemic. In the lower quadrant, pus is visible; a similar picture is observed in the photo in the atlas of operative otolaryngology. In case of such a pathology, the doctor performs tympanopuncture (perforation of the eardrum), and the pus is removed through the hole made and the external auditory canal. The child immediately notices relief.

If there is a bilateral perforation of the membrane, a catheter is inserted into the middle ear cavity. Thus, the tympanic cavity is washed with antiseptics. Non-toxic antibiotics, namely cephalosporins, are used locally. The catheter is left above until the purulent contents are completely removed.

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