Ear Doctor Tips for Ear Infections & Cleaning
Rockwell MD | Seattle, WA
Although it may seem like common sense to clean your ear along with the rest of your body is it not safe to clean more than your outer ear at home. No maintenance is required, as the ear is self-cleaning. Earwax is naturally produced inside the ear and migrates from deeper inside to outside to clean the canal. It is beneficial so there is no need to remove it from the inside of your ear, as it will come out on its own. Exceptions are the few people that make more than the average amount of earwax; however, inserting a swab inside the ear is not the answer. Inserting anything into the ear can damage the ear canal or drum, or even worse, pushing the ear wax further into the canal. The safest way to remove wax buildup from your ears is to visit your ear doctor. A doctor can use special instruments to clear the blockage from inside the ear canal and may offer professional irrigation.
Did you know there are three different types of ear infections? Outer Ear Infections, Middle Ear Infections, and Inner Ear Infections. Each is different and treatment varies depending on the type and location of each infection. Outer and middle ear infections are more common whereas inner ear infections are less common. When the outer ear is infected, the condition is typically called swimmer’s ear, which is different from a middle ear infection. Middle ear infection is called acute otitis media. Some common symptoms of a middle ear infection include fever, ear pain, difficulty sleeping, rubbing at the ear, puss-like ear drainage, hearing loss, and persistent feeling of pressure inside the ear. Ways to feel better in mild middle ear infection cases are rest, drinking extra water and taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve discomfort or fever. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist about over the counter medicines that might help you feel better and please use as directed.
When a case is not mild some worsening symptoms that would be reason to see a doctor are; a fever of 102.2°F (39°C) or higher, hearing loss, symptoms lasting more than 3 days and discharge, or fluid coming from the ear. See a doctor for any symptom that is of concern. An ear doctor will determine what type of ear infection or other potential cause of illness with a physical examination of the ear.
If you are located in Seattle Washington, Dr. Rockwell can help check and diagnose any ear issues you might have. Call to make an appointment with Dr. Rockwell today!