What is otitis media and how does it present?
Otitis media refers to infection behind the ear drum within the middle ear space. Often times this will occur with ear pain, fever, or upper respiratory symptoms. Infants or non verbal children may pull or play with ears. In some cases, children may demonstrate no signs or symptoms at all.
How are ear infections treated?
Ear infections are typically treated with oral antibiotics. Recurrent ear infections may be treated with antibiotic shots. Alternatively, chronic ear infections may be addressed surgically with ear tubes, which can be completed in the office (TULA) or under general anesthesia.
Why is my child experiencing recurrent ear infections?
In children 4 years old and younger, the connection between our ears and our nose, referred to the eustachian tube, is not fully matured. As a result, this facilitates low pressure in our middle ear space, which in turn can lead to accumulation of fluid and/or mucous in the middle ear. Mucous in the middle ear space can lead to bacterial colonization of this area leading to recurrent ear infections. In older children, ear infections may occur secondary to eustachian tube swelling linked to allergy or enlarged adenoids causing mechanical blocking of the eustachian tube. Less commonly, other anatomical issues (e.g. submucous cleft palate) can lead to improper functioning of the eustachian tube.
What is a middle ear effusion?
A middle ear effusion is fluid or mucous that lies behind the middle ear. Middle ear fluid is not always a problem and is frequently seen in both children and adults. However, if fluid remains beyond a couple of months, this can lead to temporary hearing loss. In some instances, hearing loss from chronic fluid can be linked to speech delay or ongoing speech articulation concerns.
