What is mastoiditis?

Mastoiditis normally develops after a middle ear infection, where bacteria from the middle ear travels into the air cells of the mastoid bone. However, it can also be caused by cholesteatoma, an abnormal collection of skin cells in the middle ear that can cause extensive inflammation and spread of infection to the mastoid.

The symptoms can share similar signs to other ear infections, but with an increased visibility of evidence. It’s important to be aware of the warning signs: fever, irritability, lethargy, swelling behind your ear, redness and tenderness of your ear, ear discharge, but also a middle ear infection that seemingly hasn't gone away.

If you suspect that you might have developed mastoiditis, we highly recommend that you seek the advice of a doctor as soon as possible. They will invite you for an initial ear examination, where they will look inside your ear to evaluate your ear's function and check for any inflammation.

If they suspect you have an infection, they may recommend further tests to confirm the diagnosis, which may include x-rays, blood tests and swabbed ear-fluid cultures. If your infection is thought to be severe, you may also be sent for a CT or MRI scan. In rare cases, it can develop into meningitis when the lining of your brain becomes inflamed.

If you suspect you have mastoiditis, contact your GP as soon as possible. Our experts will also be on hand should you need any additional support. For more information about other forms of ear infections, visit our otitis externa, otitis media or labyrinthitis pages. If you suspect that you may have some degree of hearing loss, we have a range of suitable hearing aids that you are welcome to explore.