More than half of all children experience a middle ear infection at some point.
It is more common in children with allergies.
The earlier a child gets this infection, the higher the chance of recurrence.
Exposure to cigarette smoke in the child’s environment increases the risk.
It is more frequently seen in children attending daycare or preschool.
There are generally three types of middle ear infections:
Acute otitis media (AOM)
Recurrent otitis media
Otitis media with chronic effusion
SYMPTOMS OF MIDDLE EAR INFECTIONS
- Ear pain
- Fever
- Sounds in the ear
- Hearing loss
- Ringing or humming in the ear
- Cough
- Discharge from the ear
In newborns, symptoms may include:
- Fever between 37°C and 38.5°C
- Feeding difficulties
- Irritability
- Tugging or rubbing the ear
- Crying
TREATMENT OF MIDDLE EAR INFECTIONS
A treatment plan should begin with an examination by an ENT specialist. The timing, severity, and type of the infection are determined during this examination. Additional tests like hearing assessments and middle ear pressure measurements may be conducted.
Once the diagnosis is clear, the appropriate treatment is chosen. Antibiotics are typically prescribed. In addition, medications or ear drops may be used to reduce swelling and inflammation in the Eustachian tubes and upper respiratory tract.
SURGICAL TREATMENT FOR MIDDLE EAR INFECTION
If the infection does not respond to medication, surgical treatment may be necessary. During surgery, a small hole is made in the eardrum. If the infection has been ongoing and the fluid in the ear is thick, an ear tube may be inserted into the incision to keep it open while the tube remains in place.
