Ear Infection

Question 1

WHAT PRODUCES EAR WAX?

WHAT IS ITS FUNCTION

Answer 1

It is produced by the sebaceous glands inside the ear and it cleans, lubricates and protects the ear lining.

Question 2

too much ear wax can be a problem, and can ____________

Answer 2

cause hearing loss.

Question 3

________________ this bacteria is commonly associated with ear infections

Answer 3

Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Question 4

_______________ is the infection and inflammation of the middle ear (directly behind the tympanic membrane).

Answer 4

Otitis Media is the infection and inflammation of the middle ear (directly behind the tympanic membrane).

Question 5

There are a number of _________ and __________causes of Otitis Media.

Answer 5

There are a number of bacteria and viral causes of Otitis Media.

Question 6

what are the treatment options for ear infection.

Answer 6

If this is a local infection we have two options:
First line - acetic acid (given as ear drops).
Second line - aminoglycoside antibiotic plus a steroid (given as ear drops).

Question 7

what are the supportive treatments

Answer 7

analgesia

fluid and electrolytes

Question 8

how long to treat?

Answer 8

7-14 days, let them know that it would not get well immediately.

Question 9

advise?

Answer 9

give advice to avoid future infections

don’t put anything in your ear.

Question 10

when to treat otitis media

Answer 10

if there is discharge

or in children under 2 years with bilateral otitis media

Question 11

what is the anti bac treatment for otitis media

Answer 11

flucloxacilin 250 mg 3 times a day for 5–7 days