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Cause

• Ear infections are caused by blockage in the middle ear. Most of the time the blockage is a result of the common cold virus, which in turn irritates the eardrum, causing inflation and infection.
  
  

Purpose

• Steroids are not commonly used to treat an ear infection unless there is concern of water buildup around the ear drum. Steroids are used in this case because they have a powerful anti-inflammatory ability to reduce any swelling while antibiotics kill the actual infection.
  
  

Side Effects

• The most common short-term side effects with using steroids for an ear infection are increased strength and excitability. Long-term effects can cause liver tumors, jaundice and high blood pressure.
  
  

Time Frame

• When steroids are prescribed for use in an ear infection, they are combined with antibiotics for 10 to 14 days.
  
  

Considerations

• If there are no visible, physical improvements within the first two to three days of use, an individual should see his doctor. If a person experiences any severe side effects such as dizziness, fainting spells or shortness of breath, he should discontinue use of the steroid immediately and get medical attention.