Winter: Ear infection is on the rise

Doctors are seeing a rise in cases of ear infection, along with itching, and swelling because of bacterial or viral inflammation due to the cold weather

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The key cause of ear inflammation can be linked to weakened immunity in cold, which leads to irritation and trapped moisture or bacteria causing otitis media

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The symptoms of ear infection include ear pain, headache, tenderness, swelling, abnormal discharge, dizziness and temporary hearing loss

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Take antibiotics, antihistamines, and painkillers after consulting your doctor. Do not take any medicines without consulting your doctor

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Use a heating pad or moist cloth, such as an ice pack or warm compress, to ease ear pain. Don’t allow water to accumulate in the ears

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Use ear plugs during bathing and swimming to reduce the risk of ear infections and take steps to prevent the common cold, flu, and sinusitis

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