Why Does Water in the Ear Cause Recurring Middle Ear Inflammation?
Repeated episodes of otitis media caused by water in the ear may be due to the patient's failure to promptly clear the water in the ear canal, or the patient may have underlying conditions such as tympanic membrane perforation or Eustachian tube dysfunction. It is recommended that patients seek medical attention promptly and undergo targeted treatment after identifying the cause. Here are some possible causes and treatment recommendations:
1. Failure to Promptly Clear Water in the Ear Canal: If the patient's ear gets wet while bathing or swimming but the water in the ear canal is not cleared promptly, it may lead to bacterial growth, causing repeated episodes of otitis media. It is recommended that patients use hydrogen peroxide to clean the external ear canal under medical supervision and follow the doctor's instructions to use antibiotics such as levofloxacin ear drops or ofloxacin ear drops for anti-infective treatment.
2. Tympanic Membrane Perforation: If the patient has a tympanic membrane perforation, water entering the ear during bathing or swimming may lead to repeated episodes of otitis media. It is recommended that patients use antibiotics such as amoxicillin or cefixime dispersible tablets under medical supervision for anti-infective treatment. For patients with small tympanic membrane perforations, surgical treatment may be an option.
3. Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: If the patient has Eustachian tube dysfunction, water entering the ear during bathing or swimming may lead to repeated episodes of otitis media. It is recommended that patients use glucocorticoid drugs such as prednisone or dexamethasone under medical supervision. If necessary, Eustachian tube dilation may be performed.
4. Other Causes: If the patient has conditions such as rhinitis or sinusitis, it may lead to an increase in nasal secretions, which can block the Eustachian tube. When water enters the ear during bathing or swimming, it may cause repeated episodes of otitis media. It is recommended that patients use nasal sprays such as budesonide or mometasone under medical supervision.
