6402 US-30 Jeannette PA 15644

Mastoiditis Treatment in Jeannette, PA

Mastoiditis treatment for middle ear infection in Jeannette, PA

Situated behind your ear, the mastoid bone plays an important role in your ear's overall function. Your mastoid bone, unlike other bones in the human body, is not bone-like at all but actually sponge-like, composed of air sacs responsible for receiving air from other parts of the ear. Your mastoid bone receives this air primarily from the Eustachian tube, a tube which connects your middle ear to the back of your throat, in order for the ear to function properly. A normal mastoid bone acts as a regulatory organ which helps drain the middle ear. However, when the mastoid bone becomes infected or inflamed, often as the result of an unresolved middle ear infection spreading from the ear to the mastoid bone, a rare but serious condition known as mastoiditis may develop. When this occurs, bacteria infecting and compromising the air cells in the mastoid bone causes drainage of the middle ear. If left untreated, a mastoiditis infection can travel to other parts of the body including the brain, causing more severe and dangerous conditions like meningitis, which is characterized by inflammation of the brain and spinal cord and can be life-threatening.

The most common mastoiditis causes include:

  • Bacteria, from the middle ear infection, spreading to the air cells of the mastoid bone
  • A destructive and expanding skin cyst in the middle ear called cholesteatoma, blocking drainage of the ear

While more common in children, mastoiditis in adults does occur and warrants medical attention. To schedule a consultation with a healthcare provider in Jeannette that specializes in mastoiditis treatment, call (724) 915-1049 or contact Martin Gallagher online.

Mastoiditis Symptoms

Often, mastoiditis can be mistaken as an ear infection; however, when symptoms persist or become increasingly severe, mastoiditis may be to blame. Common mastoiditis symptoms include:

  • Drainage from the ear
  • Pain, discomfort or irritability associated with the ear
  • Fever, which may be high or suddenly increased
  • Headache
  • Hearing loss
  • Bulging, swelling and drooping of the ear (in acute mastoiditis)
  • Persistent middle ear infection

Mastoiditis Treatment

If you are experiencing any mastoiditis symptoms, it is important to promptly schedule an appointment for a thorough examination of your ear. Your healthcare provider will evaluate the health of your ear, paying particular attention to any visible inflammation. If your healthcare provider suspects a mastoiditis-driven bacterial infection, diagnosis will typically start with tests that inspect for abnormality of the mastoid bone, including an MRI or CT scan of the head and ear in specific. Blood and ear-fluid samples may be taken as well to assist in the diagnostic process.

Your mastoiditis treatment plan might include antibiotics, either taken orally or through an IV drip, to fight the infection causing your condition. This may be completed in a hospital setting depending upon the severity of your infection. It is also likely that ear drops and regular ear cleanings will be recommended by your healthcare provider to prevent further complications. Because medications may not reach deeply enough into the bone, a mastoiditis surgery (mastoidectomy)—a procedure that removes the mastoid air cells the skull behind the ear—may be recommended for sustained relief.

Mastoiditis cases can range in severity, hence seeking a professional who can recommend proper steps for your particular case is essential. To schedule an appointment in Jeannette with a healthcare provider that specializes in mastoiditis and middle ear infection treatment, call (724) 915-1049 or contact Martin Gallagher online.

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Hours and Directions
Medical Wellness Associates


6402 US-30
Jeannette, PA 15644
(724) 915-1049


Mon: 8:00 am - 7:30 pm
Tue: 9:00 am - 5:30 pm
Wed: 8:00 am - 7:30 pm
Thu: 8:00 am - 5:30 pm
Fri: 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
Sat: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Sun: Closed

Service Locations:
