d. Signs/Symptoms of Otitis Media. Included are the following:
(1)
Pain. The mastoid tap will be positive (causing pain.)
(2)
Deafness.
(3)
Fever.
(4)
Chills.
(5) Feeling of fullness and pressure. Pressure may cause the tympanic
membrane to rupture.
e. Treatment. Bedrest and analgesics such as aspirin are parts of the
treatment for otitis media. Penicillin or broad-spectrum antibiotics continued for 7 to 10
days will help to prevent the recurrence of infection. In case of penicillin-allergic
patients, give alternate drugs. A nasal decongestant will serve as an aid in the
3-20. CONDITION OF THE MIDDLE EAR--TYMPANIC MEMBRANE PERFORATION
a. Description. The cause of this condition is usually trauma but occasionally
the problem is caused by acute otitis media.
b. Signs/Symptoms. Included are:
(1)
Occasional pain.
(2)
Hearing loss.
(3)
Blowing sensation in the ear caused by air passing through the tympanic
membrane.
(4)
Occasional clear or purulent discharge may be present.
c. Treatment. Treatment should not include medications in the ear or any
packing of the ear. Keep the ear dry and clean. An external dressing is recommended.
Oral analgesia is not usually needed. The patient should be restricted from flying,
swimming, or heavy contact with loud noises. Keep water out of the ear. Systemic
antibiotics should be given only if infections occur. Evacuation is not urgent unless a
flap is present. If there is only a small perforation, called a "pinhole," no treatment is
necessary. Some complications of this condition are the failure to heal spontaneously,
ear infection, and scarring.
MD0582
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