Mastoiditis & Related Conditions
What is it?
Mastoiditis is the result of an infection that extends to the air cells of the mastoid bone – a part of the skull behind the ear. Mastoiditis is usually caused by untreated acute otitis media (middle ear infection). The condition is most common in children.
Without treatment mastoiditis may have serious complications, all connected to the infection spreading to surrounding structures. Complications include meningitis, epidural abscess, hearing loss, vertigo, facial paralysis and more.
10 Alikes with Mastoiditis & Related Conditions
Learn from others
who are experiencing
Mastoiditis & Related Conditions.
Signs & symptoms
The symptoms of mastoiditis may include:
redness, swelling, and tenderness behind the affected ear
* ear pain
* fever
* headache
* drainage from the affected ear
* hearing loss in the affected ear
Diagnosis
diagnosis is usually made based on the symptoms and physical examination. Additional tests may include:
* blood tests - to check for signs of an infection
* imaging tests – CT or MRI scan
Treatment
Initial treatment will usually include hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics. You (or your child) will probably need to take oral antibiotics at home for several days after leaving the hospital.
If the infection doesn’t clear up after treatment with antibiotics, surgery may be necessary.
☝️ This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision.
Learn more about our editorial process for content accuracy.
Source of Information - We analyze big data of more than 23 million patients de-identified medical records from the following sources:
Find people who are
experiencing a similar
medical reality
Free
Alike Wisdom
Instantly get answers to medical questions with our AI, built from the collective wisdom of our community facing similar experiences
You might also like