Ear infection (middle ear) - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic
Jun 23, 2021 · An ear infection is caused by a bacterium or virus in the middle ear. This infection often results from another illness — cold, flu or allergy — that causes congestion and swelling of the nasal passages, throat and eustachian tubes.
Swimmer's ear - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic
Aug 13, 2021 · Swimmer's ear is an infection in the outer ear canal, which runs from your eardrum to the outside of your head. It's often brought on by water that remains in your ear, creating a moist environment that aids the growth of bacteria.
Ear infection (middle ear) - Diagnosis & treatment - Mayo Clinic
Jun 23, 2021 · The diagnosis of "ear infection" is generally shorthand for acute otitis media. Your doctor likely makes this diagnosis if he or she sees signs of fluid in the middle ear, if there are signs or symptoms of an infection, and if symptoms started relatively suddenly.
Infection: Bacterial or viral? - Mayo Clinic
Feb 4, 2023 · In some cases, it can be hard to figure out if a bacterial infection or a viral infection is causing your symptoms. Both infections can cause the same diseases, such as pneumonia, meningitis and diarrhea. A careful review of your symptoms and lab tests can help your health care provider find the right treatment.
What Causes an Outer Ear Infection and How Is It Treated?
Dec 9, 2011 · An outer ear infection, called external otitis or otitis externa, is most often caused by a bacterial infection that invades the layer of skin lining the ear canal. Prompt treatment clears up most outer ear infections. The outer ear canal has natural defenses that prevent infection.
Meningitis - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
Oct 17, 2024 · Germs that enter the bloodstream and travel to the brain and spinal cord cause bacterial meningitis. But bacterial meningitis also can happen when bacteria directly enter the meninges. This may be caused by an ear or sinus infection or a skull fracture. Rarely, some surgeries can cause it.
Ear infections: If not antibiotics, then what? - Mayo Clinic Press
Oct 29, 2021 · Up to 80% of ear infections in children get better on their own without drugs. A big reason: Infections caused by viruses have to run their course and don’t respond to antibiotics. Children younger than 2 years old are more likely to be prescribed antibiotics for …
Strep throat - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic
Nov 30, 2022 · Strep throat is a bacterial infection that can make your throat feel sore and scratchy. Strep throat accounts for only a small portion of sore throats. If untreated, strep throat can cause complications, such as kidney inflammation or rheumatic fever.
Acute sinusitis - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
Aug 29, 2023 · The common cold is the usual cause of acute sinusitis. Most often, the condition clears up within a week to 10 days unless there's also an infection caused by bacteria, called a bacterial infection. Home remedies might be all that's needed to treat acute sinusitis.
Do Ear Infections Always Need to be Treated with Antibiotics?
Jan 26, 2016 · Antibiotics may be beneficial for certain children with ear infections. Your provider can explain the potential side effects and concerns about antibiotics creating strains of resistant disease. If antibiotics are prescribed, be sure to use the entire antibiotic as directed.