Earache
Alternate Names : Otalgia, Pain - Ear
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What to Expect at your Health Care Provider's Office
The doctor will perform a physical examination, which may include examination of the ear, nose, mastoid (bony part behind the ear), and throat. Pain, tenderness, or redness of the mastoid often indicates a serious infection.
During the examination, the doctor will ask questions about the ear pain, such as:
- When did it begin?
- Is it getting better, worse, or staying the same?
- Is the pain constant?
- What other symptoms are also present?
- Is there ear pressure?
- Is there drainage from the ear?
- Are there unusual ear noises?
- Is there a fever?
- Is there pain in the bone behind the ear?
Possible diagnostic tests include blood culture and sensitivity studies (if there is discharge).
TREATMENT
Antibiotics and medications (such as decongestants and antihistamines) are often prescribed to open the Eustachian tubes. It is important to take ALL of the prescribed antibiotic on schedule.
The insertion of ear tubes may be recommended for children who have persistent otitis media in order to reestablish proper functioning of the middle ear. Inserting ear tubes is a simple and very effective procedure.
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