Nutrition In Otitis (inflammation Of The Ear)

Otitis is an inflammation of the ear and refers to the ENT - diseases (ear-nose-throat). Depending on the location of the inflammatory process, otitis can be external, secondary or internal. The most common is the middle ear. Ear infections are usually categorized in two ways - by location and by symptoms.

Types of ear infections by location

• Otitis externa

Otitis externa is a type of ear infection that affects the ear canal between the outer ear and the eardrums. It is most often caused by dirty water or improper cleaning.

• Otitis media

This type of otitis affects the inner ear and is most often caused by blockage of the eustachian tubes. It is most common in children.

• Otitis media

Otitis media, also known as labyrinthine or vestibular neuritis, affects the inner ear. It is unique in that inflammation is rarely caused by infection.

What are the symptoms of an ear infection?

The most common symptoms of an ear infection are:

• ear pain, often throbbing;
• fever;
• pressure or a feeling of fullness in the ear;
• pus in the ear;
• hearing difficulties in the affected ear;
• nausea and vomiting;
• headache;
• dizziness.

How to prevent ear infection through diet?

Proper diet plays a significant role in reducing the risk of ear infections. Add more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and high quality protein to strengthen the immune system. Eliminate milk and sugar, as they are common allergens. It is especially important to be well hydrated, as this can help separate mucous secretions from the ears. The essential fatty acids found in cold-water fish, flaxseed and oil are helpful in reducing inflammation. Regular exercise can also help reduce the risk of an ear infection.

Why are children so susceptible to otitis media?

The main reason babies and children develop otitis media much more often than adults is that their Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the nasal cavity, tend to be more horizontal. This means that there is a much higher probability of fluid accumulation. Mucus that can be secreted in an adult stays in place, causing pain, pressure and infection. With age, children's estuary tubes gradually become more vertical and begin to drain excess fluid better.

Feeding babies with otitis

Use infant formula without formula instead of formula, but consult your doctor first. Avoid feeding the baby lying on his back. Make sure it is at an angle of at least 30 degrees or more. Breastfeeding mothers should avoid eating foods that contain allergens (such as cow's milk). Eliminating other common allergens can also help prevent ear infections. Exposure to environmental allergens, such as cigarette smoke, can also create an environment in which bacteria and viruses grow. Avoid using cotton swabs as they push the earwax into the ear canal and can cause otitis or other types of ear infections.

Useful foods for otitis

In the presence of such a health problem, it is necessary to consume products that reduce the amount of secretion produced and help increase the body's defenses.

For this purpose, the consumption of:

• chicken broth;
• green spices (celery, dill, horseradish, parsley);
• lettuce leaves;
• Red peppers;
• lemons and all citrus fruits;
• honey;
• melons;
• papaya;
• Kiwi;
• black currant;
• pumpkin;
• soybeans;
• carrots;
• blueberries;
• ginger;
• beets;
• green tea;
• seeds;
• nuts;
• legumes.

Dangerous and harmful foods for otitis are:

• all sour milk and dairy products;
• eggs;
• red meat;
• any fried products;
• large amounts of salt and sugar in the diet;
• food supplements ;
• any products that could cause allergies in the patient;