What should I do if my ear is inflamed and I’m experiencing hearing difficulty?

Management of hearing loss due to ear inflammation depends on the underlying cause. Common causes include otitis externa, otitis media with effusion, and tympanic membrane perforation.

1. Otitis Externa

If hearing loss results from otitis externa, it is typically caused by bacterial or fungal infection. For bacterial infections, antibiotics prescribed by a physician—such as roxithromycin tablets or cefixime dispersible tablets—may be used. For fungal infections, antifungal medications—including itraconazole capsules or fluconazole tablets—are commonly prescribed.

2. Otitis Media with Effusion

Otitis media with effusion often arises secondary to upper respiratory tract infections, rhinitis, or rapid atmospheric pressure changes (e.g., during air travel). Under medical guidance, intranasal corticosteroid sprays—such as mometasone furoate nasal spray or budesonide nasal spray—may be administered.

3. Tympanic Membrane Perforation

If hearing loss is due to tympanic membrane perforation, topical anti-inflammatory ear drops—such as ofloxacin ear drops or chloramphenicol ear drops—may be used. In severe cases, tympanoplasty (surgical repair of the eardrum) may be indicated.