Chronic allergic otitis media Save
ICD-10 code: H65.41
Chapter: Diseases of the ear and mastoid process
What is Chronic Allergic Otitis Media?
Chronic Allergic Otitis Media is a condition that occurs when an individual's middle ear becomes inflamed due to an allergic reaction. The inflammation can lead to a range of symptoms, including earaches, hearing loss, and tinnitus. If left untreated, chronic allergic otitis media can cause permanent hearing damage.
Symptoms of Chronic Allergic Otitis Media
The symptoms of chronic allergic otitis media can vary from person to person, but some of the most common symptoms include:
- Earache or ear pain
- Reduced hearing ability
- Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears
- Pressure or fullness in the ear
- Itching in the ear canal
- Drainage from the ear
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Treatment for Chronic Allergic Otitis Media
The treatment for chronic allergic otitis media will depend on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may be treated with over-the-counter antihistamines or decongestants to help relieve symptoms. However, more severe cases may require prescription medications such as corticosteroids or antibiotics to help reduce inflammation and fight off infection.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove obstructions in the ear canal or repair damage to the eardrum.
Preventing Chronic Allergic Otitis Media
While it's not always possible to prevent chronic allergic otitis media, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include:
- Avoiding known allergens, such as pollen, dust, and pet dander
- Keeping your ears clean and dry
- Using earplugs or earmuffs to protect your ears from loud noises
- Avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke
- Getting regular check-ups with an audiologist or ENT specialist
If you have a history of ear infections or allergic reactions, it's important to talk to your doctor about your risk for chronic allergic otitis media and what steps you can take to reduce your risk.
Conclusion
Chronic allergic otitis media can be a serious condition that can cause permanent hearing damage if left untreated. If you experience any symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention right away. By taking steps to prevent the condition and getting regular check-ups with an audiologist or ENT specialist,