Listen Up: What You Need to Know About Ear Infections

Be honest – do you instinctively reach out for cotton buds after a bath to clean your ears? Many Filipinos have this habit, passed on from parents and grandparents. We often hear them say, “Huwag mo kalimutan linisin ang tenga mo.” (Don’t forget to clean your ears.) But what many don’t realize is that overcleaning and use of cotton buds can irritate and infect the ear canal.

Ear infection is more common than we think. According to the Healthline, it can happen to people of all ages, especially children. Many individuals experience ear discomfort, discharge, or temporary hearing loss without realizing that these can be symptoms of an ear infection. While mild infections can clear up on their own, others can lead to damage and complications if left untreated. Being aware of the symptoms early on can make a big difference — helping you know what to do next before the condition gets worse.

What is an Ear Infection?

An ear infection happens when germs — such as bacteria or viruses — enter and affect the ear. According to the Mayo Clinic, it often develops after a cold or respiratory illness. These conditions can cause the narrow tubes that connect the middle ear to the back of the throat to become swollen or blocked. When that happens, fluid or mucus can’t drain properly and starts to build up in the middle ear, which could result in an infection over time.

Symptoms To Watch Out For

Adults

Ear pain or discomfort
Lack of appetite
Difficulty sleeping
Temporary hearing loss in the affected ear
Ear pressure
Ear discharge that may appear yellow, brown, or white — a possible sign that the eardrum has ruptured

Important reminder: If you notice discharge coming from your ear, never insert anything into the ear canal to avoid inflicting further injury and delay healing.

Health Tip: Avoid self-medicating with ear drops or antibiotics without a doctor’s advice. Using the wrong treatment can delay healing or make the infection worse.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if you experience:

Persistent or worsening ear pain – lasting more than two days
Fluid, pus, or blood draining from the ear
Hearing loss, ringing, or muffled sounds in one or both ears
Dizziness or loss of balance
High fever
Persistent ear pressure or earache even after recovering from a cold

In some cases, when standard treatments don’t fully clear the infection, a minor surgical procedure may be needed to help drain the trapped fluid.

Infants and Children

Babies and toddlers cannot always express what’s bothering them, so it’s important for parents and caregivers to watch for behavioral changes and physical signs that might indicate an ear infection. Keep an eye out for these common symptoms:

Fever – typically between 38°C and 40°C
Pulling, rubbing, or tugging at one or both ears
Frequent crying or irritability
Breathing through the mouth or snoring more than usual – could indicate swollen tissues behind the nose that can block the passage between the ear and throat
Refusing to eat or drink – swallowing could be causing discomfort

What Parents Can Do You can help ease discomfort by:

Keeping your child’s head elevated while resting to reduce ear pressure
Giving warm compresses (not hot) against the affected ear for a few minutes
Making sure your child stays hydrated and gets plenty of rest
Avoiding inserting cotton buds, oil, or any liquid into your child’s ears

When to Bring Your Child to a Doctor

The treatment for your child’s ear infection will depend on several factors, including their age, the nature of infection, and how serious it is before deciding on the best approach. If your baby is younger than three months and develops a fever of 38°C or higher, seek medical attention right away. At this age, even a mild fever can be a sign of infection that needs prompt care.

A trusted healthcare family plan Philippines gives you access to consultations, including specialist evaluation – like an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) doctor. If your child shows signs of severe pain, fluid discharge, or hearing problems, don’t delay seeking help to prevent complications.

Why Taking Care of Your Ears Matters

Conclusion: Listen to Your Body and Act Early

Your ears keep you connected to the world around you. That’s why taking care of them should be a priority. Ear infections may seem minor at first, but ignoring symptoms like ear pain, ear discharge, or temporary ear loss can lead to more serious problems.

If you or your child exhibit signs of ear infection, it’s best to consult a doctor for proper assessment and treatment. For peace of mind, having a prepaid emergency health card Philippines gives you access to quality medical care when you need it most. Remember that timely care is essential to overall wellbeing.

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