Bilateral otitis media in adults

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Bilateral otitis - an adult disease in a child

Acute inflammation of the middle ear, called otitis media, can develop unilaterally or bilaterally. The pathological process affects both ears in 70% of cases of the disease.

Table of contents:

We will talk about such a disease as bilateral otitis, the differences in the occurrence of pathology of the children's and adult auditory analyzers, as well as the principles of treatment and diagnosis.

How does the disease develop?

The development of otitis occurs due to the penetration of bacteria or viruses into the middle ear of the auditory analyzer. A child's body is more susceptible to the disease because the mucous membrane of the middle ear is looser than in adults and has a small number of blood vessels, which increases the level of vulnerability.

Compared to adults, children have a lower immune response, which also plays an important role in the development of the disease. An adult can talk about his feelings and general condition, but small children, when pain occurs, scream and cry, unable to explain what is happening to them.

The initial stage of bilateral otitis is accompanied by a feeling of weakness and a feeling of stuffiness in the ears. Then there is an increase in body temperature and severe pain of a shooting nature appears. The spread of pain can include the neck, teeth, eye area and pharynx. Nausea, occasional vomiting, and dizziness may occur.

Next, there is a decrease in hearing, and in the case of a rupture of the eardrum, the outflow of purulent contents that was in the cavity of the middle ear occurs. At this stage the pain subsides. The tear begins to heal, and hearing is restored.

Important! Contacting an ENT doctor should be immediate. This is especially true for children under two years of age.

Diagnostic measures

Since bilateral otitis often occurs against the background of respiratory diseases, tonsillitis, and nasal diseases, it will not be difficult for an otolaryngologist to make a diagnosis based on an examination of the patient.

The main clinical sign of the development of the disease in a child is pain when pressing on the tragus. This is a convex cartilage located on the auricle, in its anterior part. The baby responds to pressure with a sharp cry (if the baby is an infant), as the pain in the ear intensifies.

Examination of the auditory canal (otoscopy) allows you to determine the following manifestations:
  • Protrusion of the eardrum;
  • Possible presence of membrane ruptures;
  • Purulent discharge;
  • Hyperemia (swelling).

Next, an endoscopic examination is carried out, which allows a more detailed assessment of the condition of the membrane, taking material for analysis if there is purulent discharge.

Carrying out audiometry allows you to determine the presence of disorders of auditory sensitivity. The test is carried out by an audiologist using an audiometer.

For bilateral otitis media, the air conduction method is used, which evaluates the quality of functionality of the entire auditory tract. The examination result is given in the form of an audiogram. Using it, the ENT doctor determines the level of hearing impairment.

Tympanometry is a diagnostic method used to clarify the following indicators:

  • Eardrum mobility;
  • Level of conductivity and integrity of the auditory ossicles;
  • Pressure in the middle ear;
  • Functionality of the auditory tube;
  • The presence of fluid in the middle ear cavity.

The data is analyzed in parallel with the audiometric results.

Features of treatment

Treatment of the disease, especially in children, should be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. Self-medication in this case is not allowed, since it can not only delay the healing process, but also lead to hearing impairment.

Determining the etiological factor and eliminating it is half the positive result. If the cause is a respiratory disease, it is necessary to use antiviral drugs that can destroy the causative agent of the disease. If tonsillitis is the cause of otitis, both diseases should be treated in parallel.

Treatment of bilateral otitis media in children includes the following groups of drugs:

They are the means of choice in the initial stage of the disease. Sofradex, Otinum, Otipak, Otofa are used. Depending on the cause of the disease, the drops may have an antibacterial or antifungal component. Cannot be used if the eardrum is ruptured.

Vasoconstrictor drugs for the nose.

Used to reduce swelling of the auditory tube. This will help relieve the feeling of stuffiness in your ears. Preparations based on xylometazoline are prescribed.

Also used to eliminate swelling of the nasopharynx and eustachian tube (Fenistil, L-cet, Erius, Suprastin).

They are used in the presence of purulent discharge and in children under two years of age only after determining the sensitivity of the pathogen. The groups of penicillins and macrolides, which are less toxic drugs for babies, are more often used.

Compared to other antibiotics, they do not have a toxic effect on the osteochondral system, hematopoietic system and kidney function. Amoxil, Amoxicillin, Flemoxin, Clarithromycin, Sumamed are used.

From sulfonamide drugs.

Prescribed "Oriprim", "Biseptol", "Sulfadimethoxine".

In addition to specific treatment, symptomatic therapy is also used. For hyperthermia, antipyretic drugs are prescribed, the use of which is advisable when the temperature rises above 38°C. For this purpose, Paracetamol, Bofen, and Nimesil are used. The drugs are used in the form of tablets, syrups, and suppositories.

Anti-inflammatory drugs and analgesics will help relieve pain. "Analgin" is allowed to be used after 12 years of age, since its use can cause the development of aplastic anemia. Prescribed “Paracetamol” in the form of syrup, ear drops “Anauran” with lidocaine and “Saridon”, also used after 12 years.

Physiotherapy, like warming compresses, is allowed only if the body temperature is normal and there is no purulent discharge.

In case of low effectiveness of conservative therapy, paracentesis is performed - a surgical intervention in which the eardrum is pierced. This allows you to remove excess fluid from the middle ear and relieve severe shooting pain. Usually carried out 3-4 days from the onset of the clinical picture.

A timely visit to an ENT doctor and early initiation of therapy will speed up the child’s recovery and prevent the development of ear complications.

Source: http://gaimoritus.ru/otit/dvuhstoronnij-otit.html

Bilateral otitis media: treatment methods for children and adults

A disease such as bilateral otitis media can bother both adults and small children. The disease occurs for completely different reasons and affects both ears simultaneously. This complicates treatment and can provoke various pathologies in the form of complications. Such otitis media must be treated as soon as possible before it becomes chronic. In the future, you need to follow the rules of prevention to prevent relapse.

Stages, symptoms and causes of development

Bilateral otitis media differs in that the inflammatory process affects both ears. This complicates the treatment of the patient and increases the risk of complications. Initially, in most cases, symptoms appear on only one side. If untreated, unilateral acute otitis media spreads to the second ear.

Bilateral otitis media manifests itself in both children and adults with the following symptoms:

  • acute discomfort;
  • noise in ears;
  • feeling of stuffiness;
  • accumulation of exudate behind the eardrum;
  • pain, sharp and shooting;
  • serous or purulent discharge;
  • headache;
  • dizziness;
  • elevated temperature;
  • nausea;
  • general malaise;
  • hearing loss.

Pronounced signs of the disease indicate that an acute inflammatory process has developed. With minor pain and discharge, purulent otitis media is diagnosed. It often develops to an acute phase, when purulent exudate begins to fill the auditory cavity and then ruptures the eardrum.

The causes of acute bilateral otitis media can be:

  • hypothermia;
  • water getting into the ears;
  • weakened immune system;
  • infection or virus;
  • injuries;
  • improper hygiene;
  • diseases of the nasopharynx.

Typically, acute otitis media affects one ear, and the second is affected when an infection occurs due to insufficient treatment. In a child, a risk factor is the short auditory tube, which connects the ear to the nasopharynx. Through it, bacteria can easily enter a healthy organ. In adults, this process is difficult, since the canal becomes narrower and more curved with age.

If both ears are affected at the same time, this is most likely a consequence of systemic infection and weakened immunity. Often, bilateral purulent otitis media develops in a child with measles, scarlet fever, influenza, prolonged sinusitis, rhinitis and other diseases.

Otitis media cannot be ignored. If the problem is not resolved in time, the inflammation may spread to other parts of the ear. This can lead to hearing impairment. Late treatment threatens to transition the disease to the chronic stage.

Treatment and prevention

To prevent the risk of complications, it is necessary to begin treatment of the disease in a timely manner. To do this, it is recommended to contact an otolaryngologist to make an accurate diagnosis. Sometimes otitis media manifests itself in a low-intensity manner, and therefore the patient has no idea that the infection has affected both ears.

Treatment of bilateral otitis in adults is as follows:

Acute otitis media is treated with heating. If there is no damage to the eardrum, it is necessary to drop camphor or boric alcohol into the ear canal, cover the ear with cotton wool and insulate it. Purulent otitis media does not allow heating, as this only stimulates microorganisms to multiply. Compresses and certain types of medications are also prohibited, especially if the membrane has ruptured.

The main drugs for the treatment of adults are:

  • decongestant nasal drops;
  • anti-inflammatory drugs;
  • local antibiotics;
  • systemic antibiotics;
  • antiseptics;
  • analgesics;
  • vitamins.

To cure bilateral otitis in a small child, which often occurs as acute, it is almost always necessary to use antibiotics. Due to the aggressive effect of drugs in this group on the child’s body, it is prohibited to arbitrarily determine the list of suitable drugs and set the dose “by eye”. All treatment must be strictly supervised by a pediatrician or ENT specialist.

There is also a list of prohibited substances for children up to a certain age. Until the age of 3, certain antibiotics should not be used, or boric alcohol or other alcohol-containing medications should be instilled into the ears. This may cause symptoms of intoxication in the child.

Physiotherapeutic treatment complements drug therapy. It improves the absorption of drugs and stimulates the restoration of damaged tissues. Various types of irradiation are used (laser, ultraviolet, etc.), UHF, pneumomassage of the membrane, electrical stimulation.

Acute otitis media goes away in a week or two, but if purulent otitis has developed, treatment may take months. To remove pus, it is necessary to restore the functions of the auditory tube. An effective method is paracentesis of the eardrum. With natural perforation, there is a risk of extensive damage, and surgical intervention involves a careful incision of the membrane. In the case of a bilateral form of the disease, it is recommended to insert a shunt so that the pus flows freely from the ear and does not accumulate again.

To prevent disease, you should regularly monitor the health of your ears. If inflammation is detected, you should not delay treatment. Independent measures rarely give the expected result, especially in children, so contact an otolaryngologist immediately. Diseases of the nose, pharynx and upper respiratory tract also need to be treated.

If there is frequent development of bilateral acute otitis media in a child, surgery may be necessary to remove the adenoids. Another provoking factor is anatomical deviations in the structure of the nasopharynx, which can also be eliminated during surgery.

Effective therapy and timely treatment are the key to a successful outcome in any situation. This disease cannot be ignored, as there is a risk of developing bilateral hearing loss due to complications.

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How to promptly recognize bilateral otitis media

The term otitis media most often refers to an inflammatory process localized in the middle ear. Nature has specially endowed humans with a pair of ears, so that in case of accidental hearing loss, compensation remains possible on one side. Usually otitis media is a one-sided process. Let's figure out why bilateral otitis media develops.

There are a sufficient number of reasons that provoke bilateral inflammation.

  • The Eustachian tube, which provides communication between the nasopharynx and the cavity of the inner ear, is quite wide and is placed horizontally. Due to the anatomical specificity of the structure, bilateral otitis media is diagnosed more often in children.
  • The external features of the mucous membranes lining the ear canal can influence the occurrence of the disease. In the absence of pathologies, in a mature patient they are smooth, but in a baby they are loose and quite soft.
  • In infants, bilateral inflammation is often diagnosed. This is often associated with feeding problems.

The misconception of most mature patients is that hypothermia is necessary for otitis media to manifest. This is not entirely true. Of course, walking in frosty and windy weather has a negative impact on human health, but they are rarely the cause of otitis media. Otitis media in adults often occurs due to improper nose blowing.

The main stages of development of bilateral otitis media

The classic stage of development of bilateral otitis involves 5 stages, the pathology sequentially passes from one to another. The optimal method of therapy is selected by the doctor after determining the stage of the process.

Characteristic manifestations

The symptoms of bilateral otitis media are always the same:

  • increased body temperature in the initial stages of pathology development;
  • manifestation of severe pain in the ear, temple;
  • feeling of constant congestion in the hearing organ;
  • significant deterioration in the quality of sound perception;
  • the patient feels constant weakness.

The following symptoms are less common:

  • nausea and vomiting;
  • swollen lymph nodes;
  • nasal congestion;
  • flow of mucous contents from the nasal cavity;
  • sore throat;
  • migraine;
  • dizziness.

It is worth noting that with acute bilateral otitis media, ear pain will rapidly intensify. It is possible that the patient’s general well-being may deteriorate.

Illness in a child

In most cases, children under 3 years of age are diagnosed with bilateral otitis media. As mentioned above, such a manifestation is associated directly with the features of the anatomical structure. According to the nature of the pathology, it can be acute or chronic. Do not forget that chronic otitis media often turns into purulent otitis. Untimely or incorrect treatment of the pathology can cause serious complications in the child, including complete hearing loss.

As is known, children under the age of 1 year are most susceptible to developing the disease, this is due to the fact that their auditory tube occupies a predominantly horizontal position. It should be noted that the auditory tube is somewhat wider and slightly shorter, so through it all viruses penetrate unhindered into the middle zone of the ear. Acute bilateral otitis media in a child can take a purulent form within 24 hours.

It is important to note that determining the presence of otitis in an infant is quite difficult. Especially if there is no increase in temperature, which is quite possible with otitis media. Parents should remember that excessive restlessness of the baby, head shaking, attempts to throw the head back are indirect signs of otitis media in a child. To prevent unpleasant complications, it is better to show your baby to a doctor at the first suspicion of the development of pathology.

Treatment of bilateral otitis in a baby involves the prescription of antibacterial drugs for local action. This is due to the fact that broad-spectrum antibiotics are quite difficult to tolerate. They can cause the development of an allergic reaction, so if there is an urgent need, they should be given to the baby in combination with antihistamines. Systemic drugs are prescribed to children for acute intoxication.

Forms of the disease

Otitis media, both in adults and children, involves damage to one of the parts of the ear: outer, middle or inner.

The onset of inflammation of the outer ear is most often provoked by infections brought into the ear cavity mechanically. This usually occurs as a result of injury and damage. A characteristic symptom of the pathology is ear redness and swelling. Due to swelling, the ear canal narrows, and purulent discharge often appears. Inflammation can occur in acute and chronic forms.

At the initial stage, infection penetrates and inflammation of the mucous membranes of the ear forms. After this, purulent contents join the pathological process, and at the final stage the eardrum ruptures and purulent contents come out.

Bilateral inflammation can be catarrhal and purulent.

  • The catarrhal form of pathology often manifests itself as a result of hypothermia, exposure to colds, the distinctive manifestation of which is a runny nose. Mucous secretions that penetrate the auditory tube cause infection in the middle ear cavity.
  • For purulent bilateral otitis media, treatment should be started without delay. Pathogenic masses can spread to the brain area and other ENT organs. It is purulent pathology that most often leads to hearing loss.

Treatment

Bilateral otitis media is an extremely serious pathology that can cause various complications. That is why treatment of the pathology must begin immediately, regardless of who has the disease. The choice of drug should be taken seriously - it should be prescribed by a doctor.

In most cases, treatment consists of using several procedures, the direction of which is determined by the otolaryngologist depending on the characteristics of the course of acute otitis. Only a specialist, after examination and a series of diagnostic measures, will be able to select the necessary therapy.

It is important to remember that self-medication is dangerous; it can cause the disease to become chronic and develop complications including hearing loss, meningitis, and sepsis.

The treatment method involves the following:

  1. Selection of general therapy, mainly drugs that eliminate the inflammatory process, the action of which is aimed at combating pathogenic microorganisms.
  2. When otitis media occurs in a child, surgery is often required, which involves removing the adenoids.
  3. It is important to follow the specialist’s recommendations regarding the course of treatment, the duration of which varies from 10 days to 2 months.
  4. Thermal procedures for purulent inflammatory processes are strictly prohibited.

You should not think that otitis media, especially bilateral otitis media, can be cured at home. The patient's independent actions rarely end in success. Often doctors have to correct the results of such amateur activities. It’s good if you have time for this kind of work on mistakes. Treatment at home can cause irreversible hearing loss in the patient or chronicity of the process, and then symptoms in the form of ear pain will appear very often.

Source: http://gaimorit-sl.ru/otit/dvuhstoronnii-otit.html

Causes, symptoms and treatment of bilateral otitis media

Bilateral otitis is called inflammation of the middle ear of an infectious nature. The disease is quite serious and poses a danger to young children; they are the most common patients with this problem. 80% of children under the age of three experienced at least one episode of the disease. Bilateral otitis media is diagnosed in the vast majority of cases; unilateral inflammation is found in only 10% of patients.

The disease often occurs with various complications, the development of which can be prevented at the acute stage of the inflammatory process with timely treatment and correctly selected treatment tactics.

Symptoms of bilateral otitis media

In adults and children, the symptoms of bilateral otitis are the same:

Ear pain radiating to the temples, neck or jaw;

Feeling of stuffiness in the ears, hearing loss;

General weakness and irritability.

In some cases, nausea and vomiting may occur, as well as tenderness and enlargement of the lymph nodes. In severe otitis media, purulent discharge from the ear is possible.

The acute form of bilateral otitis is characterized by a rapid increase in pain, it intensifies with every hour or minute. In addition, nasal congestion, mucous discharge and sore throat are possible. The symptoms of chronic otitis are less pronounced; with this course of the disease, its development occurs slowly.

Causes of bilateral otitis media

There are many factors that can provoke the appearance of bilateral otitis media. In young children, the tendency to inflammatory processes in the middle ear is explained by the peculiarities of the anatomical structure of the hearing aid. The Eustachian tube, which connects the nasopharynx with the cavity of the inner ear, is short, wide and located horizontally. These factors contribute to the rapid penetration of infection into the middle ear and its inflammation.

The structural feature of the mucous surface of the inner ear can play a negative role in the development of pathology. If in an adult it is smooth, then in a child it is loose and soft with a small number of blood vessels, which makes it vulnerable to pathogenic microorganisms. The disease can also develop against the background of decreased immunity or as a complication after viral cold infections. Otitis often accompanies diseases such as scarlet fever, diphtheria and measles.

In an infant, inflammation in the ear may occur after the mother's milk enters the Eustachian tube. Therefore, you should feed your baby holding him at an angle, and after feeding, carry him in a column, and not lay him horizontally in the crib.

In adults, despite prejudices, acute otitis media is not directly associated with hypothermia, exposure to drafts, walking in cold weather with your head uncovered, and water getting into the ear. Pathogenic bacteria and viruses penetrate the auditory tube and then into the middle ear cavity when improperly blowing the nose with both nostrils at the same time with the mouth closed.

Various chronic pathological conditions can contribute to the disease: the presence of adenoids and a deviated nasal septum. In addition, the causative agent of the flu or other infectious disease can enter the cavity of the inner ear with the blood flow. Also, the inflammatory process can begin as a result of damage to the eardrum and the penetration of a pathogen from the external environment.

Types of bilateral otitis media

There are two forms of bilateral otitis:

Depending on the extent of spread, the disease is:

Limited (in the form of local inflammation);

Diffuse (applies to the entire ear canal).

It is possible to conditionally divide otitis into two forms:

Exudative - characterized by acute inflammation in the passage of the Eustachian tube and on the eardrum with the formation of serous, hemorrhagic or purulent exudate.

Congestive is the same inflammatory process, but without the release of exudate.

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Diagnosis of bilateral otitis media

Complaints from the ear often arise against the background of acute respiratory viral infections, influenza, diseases of the nose, sinuses, and pathological enlargement of the tonsils. For an experienced otolaryngologist, it is not difficult to establish an accurate diagnosis based on an examination of the patient and his interview. In the case of bilateral otitis in a small child, pressing on the protruding cartilage in the front of the ear causes sharp pain and crying, this sign indicates inflammation in the ear canal.

Upon careful examination, the doctor detects protrusion and redness of the eardrum; ruptures and purulent discharge in the ear canal may also be observed. Difficulty in nasal breathing is the reason for an endoscopic examination of the nasopharynx and the mouth of the auditory tube. Tuning fork tests are indicated for hearing loss, and tympanometry makes it possible to assess the mobility of the eardrum and the pressure in the cavity behind it. For an accurate hearing test, audiometry is prescribed.

Treatment of bilateral otitis media

Before starting treatment for otitis, the cause of its occurrence is determined. If bilateral otitis media is a consequence of any disease, then all efforts are directed towards treating the underlying disease. In the case where the inflammation initially occurred in the area of ​​the Eustachian tube, local treatment with ear drops and vasoconstrictor drugs for the nose is prescribed. At the initial stage, in the absence of a purulent process, physiotherapeutic measures and warm compresses on the parotid area may be recommended.

If there is no damage to the eardrum, anesthetic drops are prescribed, and if it is perforated, local antibiotics are prescribed. Self-medication in such a situation can be extremely dangerous and lead to hearing loss.

Systemic antibiotics are immediately prescribed to children under two years of age, with severe development of otitis media and people with severe immunodeficiency. In other cases, these drugs can be used depending on the patient's condition 2-3 days after the onset of the disease.

The accumulation of pus in the tympanic cavity of the ear causes tension on the membrane, increased body temperature and severe pain. To relieve symptoms, a puncture of the eardrum under local anesthesia (paracentesis) may be recommended. When the acute period of the disease has passed, physiotherapeutic procedures, ear blowing and a number of special exercises for the auditory tube are prescribed.

Traditional medicine is not always able to show the necessary therapeutic effect, therefore, at the first symptoms of the disease, you should seek help from an otolaryngologist and not self-medicate.

Author of the article: Lazarev Oleg Vladimirovich, ENT doctor, especially for the site ayzdorov.ru

If the disease develops unfavorably, the pus cannot find a way out, and this risks the infection starting to spread inside the skull. Such otitis media can develop into meningitis, as well as into a brain abscess. In order to avoid such possibly dire consequences,

Otitis is an inflammatory disease of the ear of a bacterial, less often fungal nature. Small children under 3 years of age usually suffer from otitis media; they cope with the disease the fastest and easiest. But for an adult, otitis media can become a real disaster, and if not properly treated, it can become chronic, impair hearing, or even lead to complete deafness.

In order to achieve the maximum positive effect from treatment, it is recommended to combine ear instillations with antibiotics. At the same time, antibacterial drugs, like drops in the ears, are prescribed exclusively by a doctor after a thorough examination of the patient and diagnosis. What kind of medicine will it be?

Otitis media is an inflammatory process that is infectious in nature, characterized by rapid development and localized in the middle ear cavity. The ear cavity is located inside the temporal bone and is covered from the outside by the eardrum. This membrane is the partition that separates the middle ear.

Otitis in children is an inflammatory process that affects various parts of the ear. The outer, middle and inner space can be affected by pathology. The disease has a variety of symptoms, the severity of which depends on the form, stage and nature of the course of otitis media. This disease is known to affect children.

Otitis externa most often affects people who swim. Inflammation of the external auditory canal is limited, as a rule, mainly to skin manifestations: pustules, various rashes. Severe ear pain is usually accompanied by otitis media, which is why the term “otitis media” is used in most cases.

Otitis externa is an infectious disease characterized by inflammation of the skin lining the external auditory canal. Most often, the causative agent of this disease is Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This disease has several varieties: otitis externa can be simple, malignant, diffuse and fungal. According to statistics from.

Fungal otitis is one of the types of inflammation of the ear, characterized by the fact that certain parts of it are affected by moldy yeast-like fungi. Most often, the pathological process includes the walls of the external ear canal, the skin lining the auricle, the eardrum and the middle ear cavity.

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Source: http://www.ayzdorov.ru/lechenie_otita_dvyhstoronnii.php

Providing assistance with bilateral otitis media

Among diseases of the ENT organs, bilateral otitis occurs in 60% of cases. Children under three years of age and adults often suffer from the disease. The ear has its own structural features at each age, which causes an acute inflammatory process. The causes of the disease are bacteria and viruses that support inflammation and contribute to complications. Treatment of bilateral otitis is carried out with folk remedies, antibiotics, and drugs for topical use.

Symptoms in adults

Symptoms of bilateral otitis depend on the stage of the process. During the period of precursors of the disease, adults complain of general weakness, headache with sudden movements of the head. Low-grade body temperature (up to 380) appears due to intoxication with waste products of bacteria. In the exudative and purulent phase of inflammation, bilateral otitis is characterized by the following symptoms:

  • ear pain;
  • Hearing impairment;
  • Dizziness;
  • Sensation of shooting and noise in the ear on both sides;
  • Feeling of fullness in the ears.

Bilateral catarrhal otitis of the middle ear is caused by swelling of the auditory tube, due to chronic or acute rhinitis. Patients complain of difficulty breathing through the nose and runny nose. Bilateral otitis exudative is associated with the accumulation of infected fluid in the middle ear. Adults present with symptoms of ear congestion, headaches, and hearing loss. If pus accumulates, the eardrum may be perforated and patients may experience discharge from the ears.

Causes and diagnosis

The causes of bilateral otitis are primarily considered to be bacteria and viruses. Infection can begin spontaneously with a weakened immune system or long-term use of antibiotics to treat other diseases. Predisposing factors are chronic and acute inflammation of the respiratory tract - rhinitis, tonsillitis, adenoids in children, sinusitis, nasopharyngitis. In this case, the infection spreads through the auditory tubes into the middle ear. Often the illness comes after swimming in rivers and lakes, in winter during a thaw, when children are carried in light clothing.

An otolaryngologist is required to diagnose acute catarrhal or exudative otitis media. The doctor performs an otoscopy (examination of the ear) and examines the condition of the eardrum. With the accumulation of exudate in the middle ear, hyperemia of the skin of the auditory canal is pronounced. The eardrum swells and a hole may appear in the lower quadrant from which pus is discharged. They also perform computed tomography, video endoscopy, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head.

Treatment with folk remedies

Hardening and proper nutrition with plenty of vitamins help prevent the appearance of bilateral otitis media. Prevention of chronic nasal diseases prevents the migration of microbes into the auditory tube and middle ear. Constant physical exercise and visiting the bathhouse for adults improve blood circulation, stimulate the functioning of the heart and immune system. When symptoms of otitis media appear, herbal remedies and other folk remedies are used, namely:
  • collection of chamomile, St. John's wort, calendula, oak bark;
  • geranium leaves;
  • juice of lemon, onion and garlic;
  • boric alcohol, diluted vodka.

These products are used in the form of ear drops. Only fresh geranium leaves are used differently. You need to twist the piece of paper into a tube and insert it into the ear canal. This manipulation is done 3 times a day for 1 week. The method helps relieve ear pain, and the essential oils of the plant moisturize and disinfect the skin of the ear, nourish the epithelial cells.

The herbal mixture has an anti-inflammatory effect and relieves the symptoms of catarrhal otitis media. To prepare the solution, add 20 grams of the mixture to 100 ml of boiling water. Steam for 20 minutes and inject 3 drops into each ear canal 4 times a day. After this, place a cotton swab in the ear for 30 minutes.

Antifungal and warming agents

A solution of 3% boric alcohol, diluted 1:1 with boiled water, has warming properties. This method should be used in catarrhal or exudative otitis, when there is no pus. Inject 2 drops into the ear three times a day. Each time, the ear canals are tamponed for 20 minutes, after which time they are removed. Vodka is used in the same way.

For fungal external otitis, a 0.5% soda solution is injected into the ear canals. Its alkaline properties do not allow the mycelium of the fungus to multiply and reduce hyperemia. Administer 2 drops 3 times a day for one week. It is prohibited to heat the ear during purulent inflammation, due to the possible spread of infection. Alcohol solutions should not be used for children, especially for newborns.

Physiotherapeutic procedures

Physiotherapeutic procedures are used as an addition to the treatment of catarrhal or exudative otitis media. In the phase of purulent accumulation in the middle ear, these methods are not used. The warming effect provokes the spread of pus into the inner ear. In this case, there is a high probability of pus breaking through the eardrum. The following methods are distinguished:

Sollux, or blue lamp, is used to improve blood flow and reduce swelling and itching of the skin. Used for external otitis. Sessions are carried out for 5-10 minutes 5 times a day. A positive effect is also observed when the ear is exposed to infrared and ultraviolet rays. They have bactericidal and anti-inflammatory properties.

Galvanization is based on the effect of low-level direct current. To do this, a working galvanometer is brought to the ear. This method increases blood flow, allowing excess fluid to be removed from the tympanic cavity. Another effective method is electrophoresis. This method enhances the local penetration of medications into the skin, bone tissue and middle ear cavity.

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

Magnetic therapy is classified as a mechanical treatment method. After use, pain, redness of the skin disappear and exudation decreases. Bilateral otitis is treated in sessions of 10 minutes for 2 weeks. In addition to suppressing inflammation, the magnet causes a calming effect, improves sleep, and relieves irritability. These properties of physiotherapy are irreplaceable for some pathologies.

Treatment with drops

Local treatment with solutions is used in complex therapy. Anatomically, the middle ear and nasal cavity are connected to each other through the auditory tube. Inflammation of one structure leads to the involvement of another in the process. Therefore, otolaryngologists recommend the use of ear and nasal drops. The basic rule for using drops is the absence of perforation (perforation) of the eardrum.

Ear drops

To treat a bilateral process, use anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and hormonal drops. Otipax solution is intended for topical use. Administer 2 drops three times a day for a period of days. The drug reduces swelling, hyperemia of the skin and eardrum. The product is allowed to be used by pregnant and nursing mothers, as no systemic effects have been detected. Here are a few more medications in this group:

  1. Anauran in drops has an antibacterial and analgesic effect. The drug is used for local administration into the outer ear. Indications are acute bilateral exudative and catarrhal otitis, other inflammations without signs of perforation of the tympanic membrane. 3 drops are administered into each ear 4 times a day for 7-10 days. In children under three years of age, use is contraindicated, and after 3 years, 2 drops 3 times a day.
  2. The drug Otofa contains the antibiotic rifampicin, which has a bactericidal and antiseptic effect. Should only be used topically. Adults are administered 5 drops 3 times a day, for children 3 drops three times a day for no longer than 1 week. Side effects include red discoloration of the eardrum and allergic reactions. There is no reliable data on the negative effects on the fetus in pregnant women due to the lack of clinical studies.

It is impossible not to mention Dimexide. Dimexide has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect and carries antibiotics deep into tissues. Apply only topically, diluting in boiled water before use, the ratio is one to five. Bilateral otitis is treated by injecting 2 drops of solution into each ear 3 times a day. After waiting 15 minutes, remove dimexide from the ear with a cotton swab to prevent burns. Children and pregnant women are prohibited from using the drug.

Nasal drops

Nasal (nose) drops are an integral part of the treatment of bilateral otitis media. They are used to eliminate the symptoms of rhinitis and sinusitis. With these diseases, swelling of the nasal mucosa occurs and the exit from the auditory tube is blocked. As a result, exudate accumulates in the middle ear, and after the addition of bacteria, purulent inflammation occurs. In most cases, bilateral otitis media is accompanied by rhinitis, the symptoms of which can be eliminated by the following types of nasal drops:

Vasoconstrictor drops are very popular among patients. They are used with or without just cause. Otolaryngologists recommend instilling the drugs Sinerus and Rinotaiss into the nose 3 times a day. The drops are effective for 6 hours, quickly eliminate swelling of the mucous membrane and resume nasal breathing. These equalize the pressure in the middle ear and improve the outflow of exudate.

Hormonal sprays are used in cases of bilateral vasomotor rhinitis. This variant of the disease causes persistent swelling of the mucous membrane and dilation of blood vessels, which impair the patency of the auditory tube. Apply Beconase, Nasobek, Aldecin 2 injections 4 times a day, but not longer than 7 days. In children under 6 years of age, the use of the spray is prohibited, as it can have a systemic effect. The drug has a powerful and long-lasting anti-edematous effect and inhibits local immunity.

Combined drops consist of vasoconstrictor components, sea water or hormones. The drug Snoop is injected 3 drops three times a day inside each nostril for 10 days. The composition contains sea salt and xylometazoline, which remove secretions and stimulate the movement of epithelial villi. Sanorin is administered 2 drops 4 times a day; it can be used for children.

Treatment with antibiotics

Systemic antibiotic treatment is necessary to combat the bacterial infection. Acute catarrhal and exudative otitis media can be cured with ear and nasal drops and folk remedies. However, if there is a fever, severe pain in the ears, or hearing loss, then it is necessary to use antibiotics. Choose drugs that do not have an ototoxic effect (on the auditory nerve), namely:

The use of cephalosporin antibiotics requires intramuscular or intravenous injections. Ceftriaxone, Tsafoperazone, Ceftazidime, Cefotaxime are administered 1 gram IM or IV 2 times a day for 7 days. The drugs have a wide spectrum of action and do not adversely affect the auditory nerve and vestibular apparatus. For children, use a reduced dosage according to the drug instructions.

Penicillins also have a broad spectrum of action. They inhibit the growth of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Doctors prescribe Amoxicillin and Augmentin, which are protected by clavulonic acid. This drug increases the resistance of antibiotics against bacteria. Patients take 1 capsule (650 mg) 3 times a day for 7-10 days. Children are prescribed 250 mg 3 times a day, which depends on the child’s weight.

Fluoroquinolones are modern highly active antibiotics that act on bacteria resistant to penicillins and cephalosporins. Ciprofloxacin is prescribed in tablets, and in case of complications - intravenous solutions. Use 250 mg 2 times a day for 1 week. The drug is indicated for children if the expected effect is higher than the possible complications.

All antibiotics can cause side effects. Among them, the most common are nausea, diarrhea, and thrush. An allergic reaction occurs with prolonged use of antibiotics. Pregnant and lactating women use antibiotics only in case of purulent complications. In the postoperative period, antibiotic therapy should be accompanied by the administration of antifungal drugs.

Symptomatic treatment

This type of treatment is aimed at combating the symptoms that accompany bilateral otitis media. These signs include headache, fever, weakened immune system, and nasal congestion. Many medications combat these symptoms. These funds can be divided as follows:

  • non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs);
  • antihistamines;
  • vitamin.

NSAIDs have a strong decongestant effect, improve blood flow in the mucous membrane and relieve headaches. The best effect is observed after using powders in bags. Fervex, Nimesil, Nemulex are poured into a glass of warm water, stirred and drunk. The drug should be used four times a day along with antibiotics. The analgesic effect lasts about 5-6 hours.

Antihistamines have an antiallergic effect, reduce vascular permeability and the release of inflammatory mediators. Use Fenkarol and Suprastinex tablets once a day. These drugs do not cause drowsiness, fatigue, or interfere with driving. For children, a reduced dosage is used; it is not advisable for pregnant and lactating women to use such drugs.

Vitamin complexes help the body fight infection, strengthen the immune system, strengthen blood vessels and the protective properties of cells. It is better to use multivitamin preparations that contain the entire complex of microelements and enzymes. Use Pikovit, Supradin, Elevit, 1 capsule 3 times a day for 1 month. For children, the use of vitamins is allowed, but allergy history must be taken into account. Side effects of the drugs include urticaria, nausea, and itchy skin. But these reactions appear as an exception to the rule.

Surgery

The choice of surgical method depends on the stage of otitis media, chronic or acute inflammation. The surgical tactics are determined by the otolaryngologist; for this, the patient undergoes additional studies: audiometry to test hearing, SCT of the skull. For catarrhal or exudative inflammation of the middle ear, a catheter is inserted into the auditory tube. Through it, a mixture of hydrocortisone, antibiotic and saline solution is delivered into the tympanic cavity. The procedure is carried out on both sides 2 times a day, and these drugs relieve swelling and have a bactericidal effect.

In the case of bilateral suppurative otitis media, tympanopuncture is performed, in which the eardrum is pierced. This frees up the ear cavity and reduces pressure. Every day, the middle ear cavity is washed with antiseptics through a catheter. If the process decreases, then the perforation hole in the eardrum closes on its own.

Purulent otitis media is sometimes complicated by mastoiditis. This situation occurs when the purulent process has spread to the cells of the mastoid bone in the skull. In this case, patients complain of body temperature up to 400, severe headache and a feeling of pressure in the ear. Then, in the operating room, trepanation of the mastoid process is performed under general anesthesia. Treatment is supported by massive antibacterial, infusion and detoxification therapy.

All information on the site is presented for informational purposes. Before using any recommendations, be sure to consult your doctor.

Source: http://kakiebolezni.ru/otolaringologiya/otit/dvuhstoronnij-otit.html

Why is bilateral otitis dangerous and how to treat it?

Bilateral otitis is an infectious inflammation of the middle ear. The disease is quite dangerous, especially for young children. In most cases, otitis media is bilateral, in others it is unilateral. The occurrence of this disease occurs due to bacteria or infections entering the ear cavity. This disease is treated by an otolaryngologist.

The most likely causes

There are many reasons for the development of bilateral and unilateral otitis media. As for young children (we recommend reading the article about the treatment of otitis media in children), the disease is primarily due to the fact that the Eustachian tube in children is wide and short, and its location is almost horizontal. Accordingly, all infections from the nasopharynx of children will easily enter this tube and cause inflammation of the middle ear.

In addition to all this, otitis media also develops in an infant if, after feeding, he is not carried “in a column”, otherwise the milk may end up in the Eustachian tube.

It is important after feeding not to put the baby in bed, but to wait a little until the air comes out. It is better to hold the baby at an angle while feeding.

Another reason for the occurrence of otitis may be the structure of the mucous tissue in the middle ear. In adults, this tissue is smooth, but in children it is loose and gelatinous, consisting of a small number of blood vessels, and this is the most vulnerable environment for the proliferation of viruses and bacteria. Due to the fact that in children the eardrum is somewhat thicker, pus collects in the tympanic cavity, so there is a risk of complications.

As the child grows, the incidence of bilateral otitis media decreases, and all because the hearing aid develops. And when a person grows up, at the same time the Eustachian tube becomes thinner and its location appears at an angle. The chances that mucus from the nasal pharynx will end up in it becomes less. This is protection against infections.

Otitis media can also accompany certain other diseases, such as measles, scarlet fever, and diphtheria. In older children, respiratory diseases can cause complications in the form of otitis media.

Speaking about adults, we can say that otitis media occurs less frequently in them. And if it does happen, then the cause is ordinary hypothermia due to a draft or a long swim in the water. The development of the disease is also possible if hygiene rules are not followed, for example, using one side of a cotton swab when cleaning one and the other ear.

Symptoms of bilateral otitis media

In both children and adults, the symptoms of bilateral otitis media are the same:

  • Ear pain comes first. This can be determined in young children by pressing on the protrusion that is located at the base of the auricle (tragus);
  • noise in ears;
  • hearing impairment;
  • elevated temperature;
  • general weakness.

Effective Treatments

Before you begin to treat otitis media, you should definitely clarify the cause of its development. If otitis media is only a consequence of a disease and is of a secondary nature, then the main task will be to fight the underlying disease.

If the cause is the appearance of an inflammatory process in the area of ​​the Eustachian tube, then the doctor will prescribe local therapy in the form of ear drops. He also prescribes vasoconstrictor nasal drops, which have a positive effect on the processes occurring in the Eustachian tube and reduce the risk of developing serious complications, for example, exudative and purulent otitis media.

In case of otitis media, it is necessary to combat elevated temperature using symptomatic treatment. After its restoration, a doctor may prescribe UHF (in the absence of purulent processes). In especially severe cases, antibiotic treatment cannot be avoided.

Be careful with self-medication!

Self-medication for otitis media is not allowed. Moreover, traditional medicine is not always able to cope with this problem. It is very important to see an otolaryngologist as soon as possible to get the right help. Do not hesitate if otitis occurs in your baby. Otherwise, you can start the disease and lead it to a chronic condition.

Source: http://xn—-9sbhsodqebss.xn--p1ai/%D0%BA%D0%B0%D0%BA-%D0%BB%D0%B5%D1%87%D0%B8%D1%82% D1%8C-%D0%B4%D0%B2%D1%83%D1%85%D1%81%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D0%BE%D0%BD%D0%BD%D0 %B8%D0%B9-%D0%BE%D1%82%D0%B8%D1%82/