Ear infections can be uncomfortable and disruptive, especially for children. Here’s where an ENT specialist comes in.
They help treat these conditions promptly to prevent complications. Addressing an ear infection on time will also give your baby some relief from the pain they could be enduring.
That said, if your pediatrician has recommended an appointment with an experienced ENT doctor in Singapore, it is wise that you make a timely arrangement to have your baby’s ears checked. In today’s guide, we explore how ENT doctors check for ear infections. Keep reading!
What are Ear Infections?
Medically, ear infections are known as otitis. They occur when bacteria or viruses invade the middle or outer ear.
And they exist in two main types; otitis media, and otitis externa. Otitis media affects the middle ear.
Conversely, otitis externa affects the outer ear. In the vast majority of cases, these infections result from respiratory illnesses.
They may also be caused by exposure to allergies, or contaminated water. Some of the typical symptoms you may experience with an ear infection include;
- Ear pain
- Hearing loss
- Fever, and sometimes
- Fluid drainage
- Reduced energy levels
- A sensation of fullness or pressure inside the ears
- High temperature
- Feeling sickly
- Irritation and itchiness which may be felt around or inside the ear
These symptoms often start quickly. And even though your body’s immune system can sometimes fight off these infections, it is best to see your ENT doctor in Singapore if they persist or only seem to be getting worse. In the hands of an experienced ENT specialist, you have the best chances of getting an accurate diagnosis.
How does an ENT Check Ear Infection?
If you’ve visited your ENT doctor in Singapore for a suspected ear infection, there are several approaches they may take to determine if what’s causing the problem is indeed an ear infection. These approaches typically include;
● Patient Evaluation:
For both adults and babies, when you visit a qualified ENT specialist, you can expect a thorough evaluation of the ear. This evaluation allows for a conclusive report on whether you’re dealing with an ear infection or something else.
During the initial consultation you will be asked about you or your child’s medical history. Typically, what the ENT doctor will be looking for in this case includes any previous ear infections, allergies, or recent illnesses.
With this information, your ENT doctor in Singapore will be able to get valuable insights for the diagnosis and planning of appropriate treatment. After the initial consultation, the ENT specialist will conduct a physical exam of the ear.
The physical exam here is done using an instrument known as otoscope. It is a small handheld instrument that allows your ENT doctor in Singapore to visualize both the ear canal and the ear drum. This visualization allows the ENT specialist to gather every piece of crucial information about the presence and severity of an ear infection.
● Diagnostic Tools and Procedures:
ENT specialists do not rely on physical examination alone. To confirm an ear infection, they may use different diagnostic tools and procedures.
Tympanometry, for example is one of the mostly used diagnostic tools. It helps measure how the eardrum moves in response to changes in air pressure.
Thanks to this test, your ENT doctor in Singapore cannot only assess the function of you or your child’s middle ear and most importantly detect the presence of fluid accumulation.
They may also want to use a technique known as acoustic reflectometry. This technique helps measure the amount of sound reflected off the eardrum.
It helps in evaluating the integrity of the eardrum and identifying any blockages. During the examination, your ENT doctor may also use a pneumatic otoscope.
This is a specialized instrument that blows a small amount of air into the ear canal. It assesses the mobility of the eardrum and helps determine whether fluid or pressure is affecting it.
In certain cases, additional tests, like cultures or imaging studies, may be recommended. This could be to identify the specific cause or severity of the infection. They provide valuable information for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
How does an ENT Treat Ear Infection?
The treatment for ear infections may involve several approaches. These may include medication and, in some cases, minor surgical procedures.
If the infection is bacterial, your ENT doctor in Singapore may prescribe antibiotics to combat the underlying infection. Please, follow the prescribed treatment course and complete the full course of antibiotics—even if symptoms improve.
It is also worth mentioning that there are instances where ear infections become chronic or just keep recurring. In such cases, your ENT doctor in Singapore may recommend a minor surgical procedure known as myringotomy.
During myringotomy, a tiny incision is made in the eardrum. The reason for this is to help relieve pressure and drain fluid.
The ENT doctor may also choose to insert a small tube into the eardrum. This tube is usually used in instances where there is a need to promote proper ventilation and prevent recurrent infections.
How do you Prevent Ear Infections?
When it comes to preventing ear infections, adopting healthy practices could be all you need. Here are some suggestions that may help you prevent ear infections:
- Maintain good hygiene: Regularly wash hands. Also, encourage your children to do the same. This will help minimize the spread of bacteria and viruses that can cause ear infections.
- Avoid secondhand smoke: Did you know that exposure to cigarette smoke can increase the risk of developing ear infections? This is especially true when it comes to children. So, it is best that you keep your environment smoke-free, especially around children.
- Address allergies: Allergies can also contribute to the development of ear infections. You may want to work with your healthcare provider to manage and treat any allergies you or your child may have.
- Proper ear cleaning: Use gentle cleaning techniques. Also, avoid inserting cotton swabs into the ear canal. If not sure, consult your ENT doctor in Singapore for guidance on safe and effective ear-cleaning methods.
Conclusion
ENT specialists play a critical role in the diagnosis and management of ear infections. They cannot only accurately identify the presence and severity of an ear infection but also help you manage them entirely.
So, don’t suffer in silence if you suspect an ear infection. Seek medical attention as soon as possible to prevent hearing loss. With a timely diagnosis and personalized treatment plan, you cannot only find relief but also restore your ear health.
Our dedicated team of ENT doctors provides expert care to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment of ear infections in Singapore. We are committed to providing exceptional care and helping you achieve optimal well-being.
So don’t wait. Contact us now to schedule a consultation with a board certified ENT doctor in Singapore. Details:
Dr Soma – Allergy & Sinus ENT Specialist @ Parkway East | Earwax Removal | Sinus Surgery Singapore
321 Joo Chiat Pl,
#05-01 Parkway East Specialist Hospital,
Singapore 427990
+65 6517 9760