Ear Infection Treatment Melbourne
Ear infections are a common cause of pain, discomfort and temporary hearing changes in both children and adults. At ENT Specialist Melbourne, specialist assessment ensures the underlying cause of the infection is identified, whether it affects the outer, middle or inner ear. Symptoms often include ear pain, fluid drainage, fever, or hearing difficulties, and can impact daily activities and sleep.
When to Seek Treatment for an Ear Infection
Ear infections should be assessed promptly if symptoms persist, worsen, or affect hearing, sleep or balance. Children with recurrent infections or fluid behind the eardrum may experience delayed speech or learning difficulties. Adults may develop chronic or recurrent infections due to underlying structural or eustachian tube problems.
Ear infections can arise from a variety of causes affecting the outer, middle or inner ear. In children, they often result from eustachian tube dysfunction or recurrent colds. Adults may experience infections due to structural issues, chronic inflammation or previous ear surgery.
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Acute Otitis Media
Acute otitis media is a rapid-onset infection of the middle ear, commonly seen in children. Symptoms include ear pain, fever, and temporary hearing reduction. Early treatment with medical management or in some cases minor procedures can reduce complications and improve comfort.
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Otitis Media with Effusion (Glue Ear)
Glue ear occurs when fluid remains in the middle ear after infection or due to eustachian tube dysfunction. It may cause hearing difficulties, speech delays in children, or persistent discomfort. Specialist assessment helps determine whether monitoring or intervention such as grommets is required.
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Outer Ear Infections (Otitis Externa)
Outer ear infections typically involve the ear canal and may cause pain, swelling or discharge. They are often associated with swimming, trauma or skin conditions. Targeted treatment with topical or oral therapy is guided by specialist evaluation.
About Mr Eduard Pudel
Mr Eduard Pudel is a Melbourne-based ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon with FRACS qualification and extensive experience treating ear infections in both children and adults. Since establishing ENT Specialist Melbourne in 2008, he has provided assessment and management of acute, recurrent and chronic ear infections.
His clinical expertise includes acute otitis media, glue ear, chronic middle ear disease, outer ear infections and surgical interventions such as grommets or tympanoplasty. He also holds appointments at major Victorian hospitals including Monash Cancer Centre and the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, managing complex ENT and ear cases.
During consultations, he explains the cause of infections in clear, practical terms and guides patients and families through the most appropriate treatment or monitoring plan to prevent recurrence and preserve hearing.
Specialist Ear Infection Care for Children and Adults
Diagnosis, Monitoring and Treatment Options
Assessment of ear infections typically begins with a detailed examination of the ear canal and eardrum. Hearing tests may be performed if fluid or recurrent infections are suspected. In some cases, imaging or in-room procedures such as minor drainage or cleaning are required to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the infection. Options include antibiotic therapy, observation for self-resolving infections, management of underlying causes, and surgical interventions such as grommets in children with recurrent fluid or hearing impairment. The goal is to relieve symptoms, restore hearing where affected, and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
Get Relief From Ear Infections With Expert ENT Care
If you or your child are experiencing ear pain, discharge, hearing changes or recurrent infections, a specialist assessment can help identify the cause and guide treatment. ENT Specialist Melbourne provides comprehensive ear infection evaluation and management. Most patients will require a GP referral where possible.
FAQ
Contact ENT Specialist Melbourne to enquire today about ear infection assessment and management for children or adults, and receive clear guidance on treatment and follow-up.