What causes fluid in mastoid cells?
Quick Answer
A bacterial infection within the middle ear is the most common cause of fluid in mastoid cells, according to WebMD. Mastoiditis occurs when too much fluid is found in mastoid air cells, which are honeycomb-like structures filled with air that drain into the middle ear. When the middle ear becomes infected, the inflammation may pass into the mastoid cells, causing fluid buildup in the mastoid bone.
Continue ReadingFull Answer
The most common treatment for fluid in the mastoid cells is antibiotics. Most cases of mastoiditis are solved with this regimen. Minor procedures, such as draining fluid from the ear or inserting an ear tube, may resolve chronic mastoiditis. Draining the fluid involves puncturing a small hole in the eardrum to relieve pressure on the middle ear. Severe cases of mastoiditis, especially if the infection isn't treated right away, may require a mastoidectomy, a procedure that involves a surgeon removing the infected bone.
Mastoiditis is more commonly diagnosed in children, but the affliction may happen in adults. Symptoms of the disorder include pain behind the ear, swelling or redness behind the ear with a small protrusion, fever, drainage from the ear and irritability. A doctor inspects the ear with an otoscope and then cultures a sample from the infected ear to determine if mastoiditis is occurring. A head scan detects major swelling of the bone.
Learn more about CellsRelated Questions
-
Q:
What are some common middle ear problems?
A: Acute otitis media, also known as a middle ear infection, is a common ailment that affects the middle ear and is caused by a viral or bacterial infection, ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Why do you need to be concerned about fluid in the ears?
A: Excess fluid in the ears provides a perfect environment for bacteria to grow and may lead to ear infections, which, in turn, can result in eardrum scarring... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Why do animals need food?
A: Animals need food to provide energy to existing cells and to provide the raw materials and energy for the construction of new cells. Cells in animal bodies... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What type of cells undergo mitosis?
A: Somatic cells go through the process of mitosis. The Genetics Home Reference website defines a somatic cell as any cell that is not an egg cell or sperm ce... Full Answer >Filed Under:
