For children, especially those under 2 years of age, improper use of ear drops can lead to severe consequences such as inner ear toxicity, resulting in permanent hearing loss. Children who are deaf before they learn to speak may also become mute.
Ear drops are categorized into two types: those used for conditions without a perforated eardrum and those for conditions with a perforated eardrum.
 |
Polydexa Medication (Image: vidal.moslek) |
The first type primarily treats external ear conditions such as external ear canal inflammation, external ear canal boils, and skin injuries in the ear canal, including Polydexa and topical antiseptic medications like Betadine. If used by individuals with a perforated eardrum, these medications can come into contact with inner ear structures, causing severe complications such as damage to the cochlea and vestibule, leading to deafness and balance disorders. If any unusual symptoms occur during use, such as dizziness, headaches, burning sensations in the ear, or allergic skin reactions, it is essential to inform the doctor immediately to change the medication and avoid using systemic antibiotics from the same class. The treatment duration should not exceed 10 days.
Ear medications for a perforated eardrum are designed to treat chronic infections of the middle ear and contain relatively safe antibiotics. These medications should be warmed to 30-37 degrees Celsius before application to prevent dizziness caused by cold medication stimulating the vestibule. Prior to application, it is crucial to clean any pus from the ear canal using a smooth, rounded cotton swab to avoid damaging the ear canal or eardrum. The cotton swab must be sterile. Gently insert the cotton swab into the ear canal to absorb pus and fluid without excessive rubbing or force. The insertion depth should not exceed 0.5 cm. When applying the drops, the patient should tilt their head to the opposite side. Using the left hand, pull the ear lobe upwards and back, then instill the medication. Hold the position for 10-15 minutes, then tilt the head towards the affected ear to allow the medication to drain out and dry the external ear canal.
It is absolutely crucial that when the ear is discharging pus, do not use crushed tablet forms to blow into the ear, as they contain excipients that do not dissolve in water, are not absorbed, and can block the drainage of fluids. Fluids will accumulate in the middle ear, leading to backward complications such as mastoiditis, meningitis, and labyrinthitis.
The most important thing to remember is to only use ear drops as prescribed and under the close supervision of an otolaryngologist.
MSc. Pham Thi Dao
