Mastoiditis Symptoms: How to Recognize This Ear Infection Early

Mastoiditis is a serious infection of the mastoid bone, located just behind the ear. This bone contains air-filled spaces that are connected to the middle ear. The condition usually occurs when a middle ear infection (otitis media) is not treated properly or becomes severe, allowing bacteria to spread into the mastoid bone. Common bacteria responsible for this condition include Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus.....CONTINUE READING THE FULL STORY HERE

Symptoms of mastoiditis include pain, swelling, and tenderness behind the ear, often accompanied by redness and warmth in the area. People may also experience fever, headache, and drainage from the ear, which may be pus-like. In some cases, the affected ear may appear pushed outward. Hearing loss and swollen lymph nodes around the ear are also common signs.

To diagnose mastoiditis, doctors typically perform a physical exam, take samples of ear discharge for testing, and may use imaging tools such as a CT scan to evaluate the infection’s spread. Treatment usually involves intravenous antibiotics, and in more severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove the infected bone. If left untreated, mastoiditis can lead to serious complications like meningitis or brain.