What are the symptoms of sinusitis?

　　In general, symptoms of otitis media include ear pain, a sensation of fullness or pressure, hearing loss, purulent discharge from the ear canal, fever, and others. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific details are as follows:

　　1. Ear Pain

　　Deep, dull pain may be triggered by inflammatory irritation or a sudden increase in middle ear pressure, worsening during chewing, opening the mouth, or pressing on the tragus. For bacterial infections, antibiotics such as cephalosporins or amoxicillin-clavulanate should be used under medical guidance. If related to allergies, oral antihistamines may be added to reduce mucosal edema.

　　2. Sensation of Fullness

　　Obstruction of Eustachian tube ventilation leads to negative pressure in the middle ear, causing patients to describe a feeling "as if cotton is plugging the ear." When accompanied by tinnitus or autophony, short-term use of intranasal corticosteroid sprays combined with Eustachian tube inflation techniques can help restore normal ventilation.

　　3. Hearing Loss

　　Conductive hearing loss results from fluid accumulation in the middle ear, which can be quantified via pure-tone audiometry. During the acute phase, treatment primarily includes oral mucolytic agents and nasal decongestants. For chronic, persistent effusion, myringotomy or tympanostomy tube placement may be performed for drainage.

　　4. Purulent Discharge from the Ear Canal

　　The presence of pus often indicates tympanic membrane perforation or secondary infection of the external auditory canal. Thick yellow pus suggests bacterial infection, while black or white flaky debris may indicate fungal infection. After collecting a specimen for culture, topical application of sensitive antimicrobial or antifungal ear drops is recommended, along with keeping the ear dry.

　　5. Fever

　　During the acute suppurative stage, body temperature may rise up to 39°C, especially in children who are more prone to high fever. In addition to physical cooling measures, adequate intravenous antibiotics are required. If fever persists beyond three days or is accompanied by severe headache or projectile vomiting, urgent evaluation for intracranial complications is necessary.

　　Daily care should focus on avoiding forceful nose-blowing, water entering the ear canal, and exposure to secondhand smoke. A diet rich in easily digestible foods and vitamin C is recommended. Adequate rest should be ensured during the acute phase, while regular nasal irrigation and massage are advised during the chronic phase to reduce the risk of recurrence.