Side Effect: Ear Infection (Otitis Media)

What is an Ear Infection (Otitis Media)?

• An ear infection, also known as otitis media, is an inflammation of the middle ear, which is located behind the eardrum.
• This condition is common among children, but adults can also be affected.
• Ear infections can be caused by bacterial or viral infections, as well as allergies or other factors that cause inflammation.
• Because certain types of chemotherapy may weaken the immune system, some patients with cancer may be at an increased risk for infections of any type, including ear infections.

What does an Ear Infection (Otitis Media) look like?

Symptoms of an ear infection may include:

• pain inside the ear
• fever
• difficulty hearing
• fatigue

Otitis media may also cause redness, swelling, or fluid buildup inside the ear which can be seen by your physician when they look into the ear using a device called an otoscope.

• In severe cases pus or discharge may be present.

Who gets Ear Infections (Otitis Media)?

Ear infections are more common in children but can affect people of any age. Patients with head and neck cancers who are treated with radiation therapy are at an increased risk because radiation can sometimes damage the eustachian tube, the tube located in the middle ear that is responsible for drainage.

How do you prevent Ear Infections (Otitis Media)?

• The best way to prevent ear infections is through good hygiene practices such as washing hands regularly and avoiding close contact with people who have respiratory infections.
• Vaccines for certain infections, such as pneumococcal bacteria, can also help reduce the risk of otitis media.

How do you treat Ear Infections (Otitis Media)?

• Treatment for ear infections may include antibiotics or other medications to address the underlying infection or inflammation.
• Over the counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may also be recommended, but make sure these medications are cleared by your doctor and pharmacist before taking them.
• In some cases, surgery may be necessary to drain fluid or pus from the middle ear.