These secretions and the swollen membranes block the Eustachian tube and cause an increase in pressure, resulting in earache. In the early stages of otitis media, before the eardrum has burst, antibiotics are usually effective. A physician may also prescribe painkillers and nose drops to relieve the congestion at the lower end of the Eustachian tube. Antihistamines may help to relieve blockage due to allergies. If the eardrum has ruptured or been surgically opened and is discharging pus, the ear should be kept clean and dry until the eardrum has healed.
Antibiotic treatment is also necessary.
The infection may spread to the mastoid portion of the bone, causing mastoiditis. Sometimes, treatment kills the infection, but the pus may be unable to escape because the Eustachian tube is blocked. Such obstructions may be caused by enlarged adenoids and may result in continued deafness. In adults, this condition may be treated by passing a tube into the nose and gently blowing clear the Eustachian tube. In children, if fluid persists for several months, it is usually treated with a myringotomy and the insertion of a drainage tube.