Symptoms of Fluid in Ears

An ear infection can give rise to fluid in ears, which shows in the form of several symptoms, although the infection is not the only cause that could lead to these symptoms. Since the ears, nose and throat are closely linked, something as simple as a cold, could set it off. Fluid in the ears, also known medically as otitis media with effusion, is most likely to be caused when the Eustachian tube is in any way impaired or damaged, since it is this organ that allows fluid from the ears to drain out into the throat. Any kind of blockage in the Eustachian tube can lead to the symptoms that are discussed below.

Symptoms
It's quite possible that this condition doesn't give rise to any characteristic symptoms, so otitis media can at times be difficult to diagnose, especially in the case of small children. More often than not, signs that you have fluid in your ears will typically show up along with an upper respiratory infection, sinusitis or other infections involving the throat and nose. The following are some common symptoms in adults:

• Mild to severe ear pain
• A feeling of fullness in the ear
• A rustling sound in the ear when you shake your head
• Popping, or a ringing sound in the ear, also known as tinnitus
• Mild hearing loss
• Fever and dizziness
• Trouble sleeping

Diagnosing the symptoms in babies or children can be especially difficult. At the same time, children are more prone to this condition since the Eustachian tube at this stage is shorter, narrower and more horizontally aligned, and thereby, more likely to develop a blockage, or cause inadequate drainage. Very often, children are likely to develop a fever with this condition; babies may pull at their ears or be excessively cranky. Watch out for children who do not respond when you speak to them, or those who seem more wobbly on their feet than usual. These symptoms are likely to accompany an upper respiratory tract infection, or a cold and flu and will recede once the infection is treated.

Treatment
Some doctors may prescribe a course of antibiotics to treat fluid in ears, however, some cases may clear up without medication. For pain relief, you may be advised to take over the counter pain killers, to deal with this condition. Ear drops and decongestants may also help relieve the condition. Most doctors will avoid prescribing antibiotics in the case of children and will instead choose to monitor the condition over a period to keep a check on it. It's best to restrict children from overexertion, and get them to rest, or sleep off the condition. Pressing a warm compress to the ears may also relieve discomfort, and steam inhalation is always a help if the ear infection is accompanied by a stuffy nose. In certain cases, as a proper remedy, excess fluid may need to be physically drained out of the ear.

The aforementioned symptoms are fairly common, and rarely a cause for worry. It's most common among children, and statistical data indicates that up to 2 out of 3 children will develop this condition before the age of three. Although chances are that the symptoms will recede by themselves and without medication, it's best to visit a doctor to get yourself checked. Professional care is imperative in the case of small children and babies. You may be higher at risk if you're a swimmer, to develop symptoms corresponding to otitis externa or swimmer's ear. Wearing ear plugs when swimming is a simple way to prevent this condition from developing. The symptoms of fluid in ears can be frustrating to deal with. Always seek the advice of a trained medical practitioner when making a diagnosis, for the best treatment options.