Otitis Media

Otitis Media is an infection if the middle ear. Otitis Media occurs when fluid becomes trapped in the middle ear and becomes infected. The Eustachian tube can become blocked so this infected fluid cannot drain.

Acute otitis media occurs when infected fluid builds up in the middle ear. This usually causes pain, redness, and can cause a fever. This buildup can also cause hearing difficulties. Fluid present in the middle ear that remains for six or more weeks is chronic serous otitis. If that fluid gets infected, it is called chronic otitis media. This fluid can be temporary but may come back. If pressure in the ear builds up and does not drain, it can cause the eardrum to rupture. Children that have persistent fluid (whether it is infected or not) may have persistent hearing loss and speech delay.

Treatment options include watchful waiting since most ear infections clear on their own. Antibiotics are another option. A second option is one course of antibiotics with follow-up. Chronic low dose of antibiotics with watchful waiting may also be used. Chronic low-dose antibiotics clear the infection, but do not clear fluid from the inner ear.

If symptoms persist, then ear tube surgery may be necessary. This involves making a small incision in the eardrum and inserting a small tube into the eardrum. This tube will allow the ear to drain when the Eustachian tube does not. Commonly this is performed on both ears. The tube can remain in place for up to 18 months. Most often they fall out on their own. If the tubes remain after 2 or 3 years the tubes may be surgically removed.