Chronic Mastoiditis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Chronic mastoiditis is a medical condition that affects the mastoid bone, a bone located behind the ear. This condition is characterized by inflammation and infection of the mastoid bone. Chronic mastoiditis can result in the destruction of the bone and can spread to other areas of the skull, leading to serious complications.
Causes of Chronic Mastoiditis
Chronic mastoiditis is usually caused by an untreated or inadequately treated acute otitis media, which is a middle ear infection. The infection can spread from the middle ear to the mastoid bone and cause chronic inflammation and infection. Other causes of chronic mastoiditis include a cholesteatoma, which is a growth in the middle ear, and a skull fracture that damages the mastoid bone.
Symptoms of Chronic Mastoiditis
The symptoms of chronic mastoiditis can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:
- Pain and tenderness behind the ear
- Swelling and redness behind the ear
- Drainage from the ear
- Hearing loss
- Dizziness or vertigo
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible to prevent serious complications.
Treatment for Chronic Mastoiditis
Treatment for chronic mastoiditis usually involves antibiotics to treat the infection. If the infection is severe or if the mastoid bone has been damaged, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected tissue and repair any damage to the bone. In some cases, a mastoidectomy may be necessary to remove the mastoid bone completely.
It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have chronic mastoiditis. Without prompt treatment, this condition can lead to serious complications, including meningitis, brain abscess, and hearing loss.