If you are prone to middle ear infections, then you’ll need to seek
health care services in Salem, OR, every time you get one. Also known as otitis media, a middle ear infection can raise your risk for a ruptured eardrum and hearing loss, especially if left untreated. Here are some ways your healthcare provider can treat your middle ear infection.
Pain Management
Middle ear infections can cause significant pain. Not only do they cause earaches, but they can also cause jaw pain, neck discomfort, and headaches. Ask the physician who is providing your health care services in Salem, OR, which type of pain management interventions he or she recommends.
The doctor may recommend over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen to relieve your pain, however, in certain cases, anesthetic ear drops may be a better option. Pain relief drops quickly relieve discomfort, however, they should not be used if your eardrum is ruptured.
Antibiotic Therapy
Most cases of acute otitis media are caused by bacterial infections. After your doctor determines that your middle ear infection is bacterial in nature rather than viral, he or she will prescribe antibiotics.
It is important that you complete your entire course of antibiotics. If you experience side effects from your antibiotics such as nausea or abdominal pain, call your doctor. He or she may prescribe a different antibiotic or recommend that you eat yogurt or take a probiotic supplement to ease your symptoms.
To learn more about middle ear infections, call Swiftcare LLC or stop by the website.
