Question
Why does the ear discharge?
Answer
There are two types of otitis media: purulent otitis media, also known as mastoiditis, often caused by the common cold, most common in children. Initially, it presents with marked ear pain and fever symptoms. After the tympanic membrane perforates and pus is discharged, the pain will decrease. The other type is non-purulent otitis media, which is characterized by no discharge but a feeling of ear fullness and decreased hearing, or accompanied by tinnitus. This is due to the inflammation of the eustachian tube causing changes in middle ear pressure. For purulent otitis media, the treatment includes conducting pus culture and drug sensitivity tests, then using appropriate antibiotics orally or intravenously based on the test results. If there is a large amount of thick pus, hydrogen peroxide cleaning can be used, followed by drops of sensitive antibiotic ear drops. For non-purulent otitis media, it is recommended to reduce the swelling of the eustachian tube, using nasal drops and decongestants, and appropriately using antibiotics.