1. Check for Inner-Ear Infection Symptoms
Headaches, pressure in one or both ears, fever and pain behind the eyes are all common symptoms of inner ear infections. Petrositis, the inflammation of a bone that surrounds the ear, often develops with or after this type of ear malady. Identifying an inner-ear issue early is an important preventive step for petrositis.
2. Be Aware of Vision Problems
A petrositis infection can cause mild or drastic vision issues depending on its severity. During certain times of the day, patients may experience both short-term and longer losses of their peripheral vision. Bouts of dizziness and double vision may also be identified with some cases of petrositis.
3. Note Any Intestinal Issues
The vision problems related to petrositis may cause nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, sufferers may have sudden vertigo attacks that recede into slight nausea. In the event of a vertigo bout, the patient should find a spot to sit or lie down to help manage the body's temporary loss of balance.
4. Pain Related to Petrositis
In addition to deep ear and eye pain, patients may also feel discomfort around the jaw and at the base of their skull. The pain may be constant, but it frequently becomes throbbing during the morning or evening hours.
5. Seek Treatment Immediately
In the event of one or more identifying factors of petrositis, patients should immediately see their doctor to begin antibiotics treatment. If the condition stays untreated, it can worsen to the point of causing damage to the bones of the inner ear and various degrees of permanent hearing loss.
