Fluid on the Ear Drum

Fluid on the eardrum can result in an ear infection, called otitis media. A Eustachian tube in each ear normally drains fluid from the ear. If it becomes clogged, fluid accumulates, allowing viruses or bacteria to grow.

Causes

The causes of blocked or swollen Eustachian tubes, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), include colds, allergies, sinus infections, infected adenoids, exposure to tobacco smoke and excessive amounts of saliva and mucus from teething.

Symptoms

According to the Directors of Health Promotion and Education, symptoms of an ear infection may include ear pain, hearing loss, dizziness, fever, vomiting and a fullness or pressure in the ear. In babies, the symptoms may include fever, irritability, ear drainage, inability to sleep and persistent crying.

Diagnosis

According to the NIH, your doctor can diagnose fluid on your eardrum by looking into the ear with an otoscope. This instrument shows fluid or air bubbles behind the eardrum.

Treatment

Antibiotics, such as amoxicillin or clindamycin, are necessary to treat a bacterial ear infection. In addition, over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, are used to treat the pain and fever.

Considerations

Persistent ear infections may require surgery in order to insert ear tubes. The ear tubes allow air in to help fluids drain, according to the NIH.

References

• Medline Plus: Ear Infection - Acute
• The Directors of Health Promotion and Education: Otitis Media