Otitis media (ear infection): Basic Disease Information

Middle Ear Infection (Acute Otitis Media) | Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

What Causes Otitis Media?

Otitis media is commonly caused by bacterial or viral infections. It often occurs when the Eustachian tubes become swollen or blocked, leading to fluid buildup in the middle ear.

What are the Symptoms of Otitis Media?

Symptoms include ear pain, difficulty hearing, fluid drainage from the ear, fever, and in children, irritability and difficulty sleeping.

How is Otitis Media Diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a medical history review and physical examination, including an otoscope examination to look inside the ear for signs of inflammation, fluid, and infection.

What are the Treatment Options for Otitis Media?

Treatment may include pain relievers, antibiotics for bacterial infections, and in some cases, myringotomy (surgical drainage) for persistent infections or fluid buildup.

Can Otitis Media Lead to Complications?

Yes, if left untreated, it can lead to complications like hearing loss, speech delays in children, mastoiditis (a bone infection), and, rarely, meningitis.

How Can Otitis Media be Prevented?

Preventive measures include good hygiene practices, avoiding tobacco smoke exposure, breastfeeding infants, and getting vaccinations like the flu shot and pneumococcal vaccine.

When Should You Seek Medical Care for Otitis Media?

Medical care should be sought if symptoms are severe, persist for more than a day, if there is a high fever, or if there are signs of hearing loss or discharge from the ear.

The symptoms of otitis media may include ear pain, fluid draining from the ear, difficulty hearing, loss of balance, fever, and irritability in children. While most ear infections resolve on their own within a few days to a week, some cases might require medical intervention such as antibiotics to combat bacterial infections or pain-relieving medications.

Preventive measures, such as vaccination against common bacterial causes of ear infection and practicing good hygiene, can reduce the risk of developing otitis media. It is essential to seek medical attention if the symptoms persist or worsen, as untreated ear infections can lead to complications, such as chronic ear infections, hearing loss, or the infection spreading to nearby structures.

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