Otomastoiditis is an infection of the middle ear and mastoid bone, located behind the ear.
Causes
Otomastoiditis usually starts as an ear infection, or otitis media. If the ear infection isn't treated properly, bacteria can spread to the mastoid bone.
Symptoms
Symptoms of otomastoiditis include:
- Ear pain
- Fever
- Drainage from the ear
- Swelling behind the ear
- Headache
- Hearing loss
- Facial paralysis (rare)
Diagnosis
Doctors diagnose otomastoiditis by examining the ear and taking a medical history. They may also order imaging tests, such as a CT scan, to see the infection.
Treatment
Otomastoiditis is treated with antibiotics. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to drain the infection.
Prevention
Preventing ear infections can help reduce the risk of otomastoiditis. This includes:
- Washing hands frequently
- Avoiding close contact with sick people
- Getting vaccinated against ear infections
