Ear Infections in Corpus Christi, TX
Ear infections are among the most common conditions seen in both pediatric and adult ENT practices. While they are frequently associated with young children, adults can and do develop ear infections particularly those who suffer from frequent colds, sinus infections, or allergies. At Corpus Christi ENT Sinus & Allergy, Dr. Todd M. Weiss provides accurate diagnosis and effective treatment for all types of ear infections.
Types of Ear Infections
Acute Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection)
Acute otitis media occurs when the middle ear the space behind the eardrum becomes infected with bacteria or viruses. Fluid accumulates in the middle ear space, causing pressure, pain, and often fever. This is the most common type of ear infection in children.
Otitis Media with Effusion (Fluid in the Ear)
Also called ‘glue ear,’ this condition involves the accumulation of non-infected fluid in the middle ear. It may follow an acute infection or develop on its own, causing a feeling of fullness, muffled hearing, and, in children, speech delays.
Otitis Externa (Swimmer's Ear)
Otitis externa is an infection of the outer ear canal, most commonly caused by excess moisture that allows bacteria or fungi to proliferate. It is characterized by ear canal pain that worsens when the outer ear is touched or the jaw is moved.
Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media
Chronic suppurative otitis media is defined by persistent ear drainage through a perforation in the eardrum lasting more than six weeks. This condition requires thorough evaluation and often surgical management.
Symptoms of an Ear Infection
- Ear pain or aching, which may worsen when lying down
- Drainage from the ear canal (clear, yellow, or bloody)
- Feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
- Diminished or muffled hearing
- Fever (more common in children)
- Irritability or tugging at the ear (in infants and toddlers)
- Nausea or balance problems in some cases
Causes and Risk Factors
Ear infections develop when pathogens most commonly Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or respiratory viruses reach the middle ear through the Eustachian tube. Risk factors include:
- Age (children under 5 years are at highest risk)
- Frequent upper respiratory infections or colds
- Allergic rhinitis or sinus disease
- Eustachian tube dysfunction
- Daycare attendance (for children)
- Exposure to cigarette smoke
- Craniofacial abnormalities such as cleft palate
Diagnosis
Dr. Weiss uses otoscopy and, when indicated, tympanometry and audiometry to evaluate the middle ear. A thorough history and physical examination guide clinical decision-making and distinguish between conditions requiring antibiotics, watchful waiting, or surgical intervention.
Treatment Options
Antibiotic Therapy
Many bacterial ear infections respond to oral antibiotics such as amoxicillin. The appropriate antibiotic regimen is determined by the patient’s age, the severity of symptoms, and prior treatment history.
Watchful Waiting
For mild ear infections in older children and adults, observation without immediate antibiotic treatment is an acceptable approach, given that many resolve spontaneously within 48 to 72 hours.
Ear Tubes (Myringotomy)
For children or adults with recurrent acute otitis media (three or more episodes in six months, or four or more in a year) or persistent otitis media with effusion, placement of tympanostomy tubes is highly effective. Tubes ventilate the middle ear, prevent fluid accumulation, and significantly reduce infection frequency.
Surgical Management
Chronic ear disease with a perforated eardrum may require tympanoplasty (eardrum repair) or more extensive surgery. Dr. Weiss will discuss all surgical options during your consultation.