Otitis Media

Otitis Media is inflammation/infection of the middle ear cavity. It frequently affects both ears and is the most frequent diagnosis in children. Although it mostly affects children, it is not uncommon for adults to have issues in this regard. The reason for fluid accumulation in the middle ear cavity is because the eusthacian tube does not function normally (this is the tube that allows air to fill the middle ear cavity through the nose). Prior to the age of 2 years old its position is more horizontal and thus does not function well. The adenoids can block the eusthacian tube along with allergies and sinus inflammation. The sequence of events is that fluid builds up behind the ear drum and gets infected. Most resolve on there own but antibiotics are frequently used with great success. If the infections recur or the fluid never goes away and causes a hearing loss than ear tubes with or without adenoidectomy (adenoidectomy is recommended for children 2 years or over where or not nasal congestion exists) is recommended. Most children only require one set but a significant number require 2, 3, 4 sets. Kids with Down Syndrome tend to have eusthacian tube problems life long.

Possible Testing

• Tympanogram
• Audiogram
• Microscopy
• MRI or CT of the brain
• Spinal tap

Fact Sheets

• Ear Infections and Earache
• Earaches
• Ear Tubes
• Swimmer's Ear