Complications from ear infection

Ear infection is also known as  otitis media. It is inflammation  of the middle ear usually caused by a bacteria.  This results in   fluid build up  behind the eardrum.

Complications  from ear infection are rare but can happen. Some of these complications include the following :

• hearing loss : Mild to moderate hearing loss may occur. This is usually temporary. Permanent hearing loss is rare. Children with repeated hearing problems may have trouble talking and understanding speech
• raptured ear drum : Continuous build up of fluid in the middle ear can cause it to rapture. This leaves a small hole that often heals within 2 weeks

Another complication of acute ear infections is ongoing inflammation of the middle ear. This condition is known as chronic suppurative otitis media. The main symptom of this condition is a repeated or ongoing drainage of pus from the middle ear through a small hole in the eardrum. Most children with this condition have some hearing loss. The treatment is usually antibiotic therapy .

Repeat ear infection can result in the following :

• tissue growth behind the ear drum. If this tissues grows very large, it can block the middle ear and impact hearing. Surgery is needed  to remove the tissue
• damage to the tiny bones in the middle ear
• infection of the bone located behind the middle ear  ( rare)
• infection of tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord (rare)

NOTE

These complications  are rare , although they can occur.