If you have a child, then you likely know that medical ailments come and go. This includes viruses and infections. Some children are especially prone to ear infections. You may know that some of these infections will go away on their own. While this is true, this is not always the case, especially when it comes to the most severe infections. If you suspect that your child has an ear infection, then it it wise to take them to see a pediatrician or a family practice professional as soon as possible. There are certain risks and issues that can develop if you do not. Keep reading to learn what they are.

Mastoiditis

If an ear infection is not treated, there is a chance that it can spread to other parts of the body. Most commonly, the bacteria will spread to the mastoid. The mastoid is a bone that is located just behind the ear. This bone has air pockets inside of it that allow the middle part of the ear drain fluid. Bacteria can easily gather in this region and an infection can develop. This type of infection is dangerous due to its location in relation to the skull. Also, infections are likely to spread once they reach the mastoid bone. 

If your child develops mastoiditis, you may notice swelling around the ear lobe and just behind the ear. The ear may also appear red and feel hot to the touch. Like most other infections, mastoiditis may develop with a fever and lethargy is a concern as well. Due to the possibility of spread infections, hearing loss, vision problems, and brain abscesses, immediate attention is needed if the infection is suspected.

Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media

Chronic suppurative otitis media is a chronic inflammatory condition where the middle ear becomes inflamed and remains this way for an extended period of time. The issue may cause some hearing loss and the problem is likely to continue until the inflammation within the ear subsides. The ear problem may also be noted with a constant drainage of pus from the ear. This pus releases from a hole in the eardrum, and this hole forms once the ear infection worsens to the point that the eardrum ruptures. 

The drainage of pus will stop and the hole in the eardrum will heal as well once antibiotic treatment is started, so make sure that a family medical professional investigates the problem before the ear infection worsens any more. For more informatoin, contact companies like Choice Medical Group.