Bulbous Ear Infection

Bulbous ear infection is a frequent misspelling of the condition bullous ear infection, also known as bullous myringitis and infectious myringitis. According to the National Institutes of Health, a bullous ear infection is a contagious condition that is characterized by blisters on the tympanum (eardrum).

Symptoms

• Discover Health notes that the symptoms of a bullous ear infection include pain that lasts one to two days, temporarily impaired hearing in the infected ear, drainage and fever.

Cause

• This condition typically arises following a viral or bacterial infection, such as a cold. Infrequently, it may also develop because of a mycoplasma bacterial infection.

Diagnosis

• A diagnosis of bullous ear infection is done through a physical examination of the ear by a physician.

Treatment

• Treatments of bullous myringitis can vary but typically include a round of antibiotics, either oral or applied directly to the ear via drops. The blisters may also be lanced, and a painkiller can be prescribed.

Long-term Effects

• The vast majority of bullous infections are resolved without any long-term impacts. However, in a small number of cases, hearing impairment may continue beyond the resolution of the infection.