Symptoms of Fluid in Ears

An ear infection can give rise to fluid in ears, which shows in the form of several symptoms, although the infection is not the only cause. Since the ears, nose, and throat are closely linked, something as simple as a cold could set it off.

This fluid, also known medically as otitis media with effusion, is most likely to be caused when the Eustachian tube is in any way impaired or damaged, since it is this organ that allows this fluid to drain out into the throat. Any kind of blockage in the Eustachian tube can lead to the symptoms that are discussed below.

It's quite possible that this condition doesn't give rise to any characteristic signs, so otitis media can at times be difficult to diagnose, especially in the case of small children. More often than not, the signs will typically show up along with an upper respiratory infection, sinusitis, or other infections involving the throat and nose.

• Mild to severe ear pain
• A feeling of fullness in the ear
• A rustling sound in the ear when you shake your head
• Popping or a ringing sound in the ear, also known as tinnitus
• Mild hearing loss
• Fever and dizziness
• Trouble sleeping

Diagnosing the signs in babies or children can be especially difficult. At the same time, children are more prone to this condition, since the Eustachian tube at this stage is shorter, narrower, and more horizontally aligned, and thereby, more likely to develop a blockage, or cause inadequate drainage.

Children may develop a fever with this condition; babies may pull at their ears or be cranky. Watch out for children who do not respond when you speak to them, or those who seem more wobbly on their feet than usual. These signs are likely to accompany an upper respiratory tract infection, or a cold and flu and will recede once the infection is treated.

Some doctors may prescribe a course of antibiotics, however, some cases may clear up without medication. For pain relief, you may be advised to take over-the-counter pain killers. Ear drops and decongestants may also help relieve the condition.

Most doctors will avoid prescribing antibiotics in the case of children and will instead choose to monitor the condition over a period to keep a check on it. It's best to restrict children from overexertion, and get them to rest, or sleep off the condition.

Pressing a warm compress may also relieve discomfort, and steam inhalation is always a help if the infection is accompanied by a stuffy nose. In certain cases, as a proper remedy, excess fluid may need to be physically drained out.

The aforementioned signs are fairly common, and rarely a cause for worry. It's most common among children, and statistical data indicates that up to 2 out of 3 children will develop this condition before the age of three.

Although chances are that the indications will recede by themselves and without medication, it's best to visit a doctor to get yourself checked. Professional care is imperative in the case of small children and babies.

You may be higher at risk if you're a swimmer, to develop signs corresponding to otitis externa or swimmer's ear. Wearing ear plugs when swimming is a simple way to prevent this condition from developing.

The symptoms of fluid in ears can be frustrating to deal with. Always seek the advice of a trained medical practitioner when making a diagnosis, for the best treatment options.

Disclaimer: This post is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.