An ear infection can occur in any of the three sections within the ear. The outer ear is that section which is visible, plus the ear canal, a skin-lined tube that ends at a disk known as the eardrum. The middle ear is composed of three small bones that lie on the inward side of the eardrum. These bones connect with the inner ear, which changes sound waves into nerve impulses and sends them to the brain.

Infection in the outer ear is usually caused by swimming in contaminated water or by damage to the wall of the ear canal. A symptom of the infection is severe pain, possibly accompanied by fever.

Infection in the middle ear is most frequently due to the spread of bacteria to the ear from infection in the nose and throat. Symptoms include earache, a feeling of fullness in the ear, diminished hearing and fever.

Infection in the inner ear usually arises from meningitis or from the spread of a middle-ear infection. Symptoms include loss of hearing, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and fever. Sever ear infections may result in permanent scarring and partial or total loss of hearing.

Medical treatment for ear infection involves rest, warmth applied to the ear, antibiotics and surgical draining of the infected area. Nutritionally, the body’s needs for vitamins A and C are increased during a fever. A well balanced diet adequate in protein is necessary to help the body fight infection and repair damaged tissue.

Nutrients that may be beneficial in treatment of ear infection: Vitamin A (50,000 IU), Vitamin B complex, Vitamin C, Protein and Acidophilus.

For nutritional support, visit Health & Wellness Haven: www.vitaminaid.net

Information obtained from Nutrition Almanac, Third Edition

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