Ear infections are a common problem in children. Otitis media is the infection of the middle ear. Most of the time it is caused by bacterial infection that nearly all children have in their nose and throat at one time or another. Often it may develop after a viral infection also. Eustachian tube plays a key role in maintaining normal pressure in the middle ear. When eustachian tube function is impaired because of any upper respiratory tract infection middle ear pressure changes and can cause formation of fluid in middle ear, bacteria and virus follow, resulting in inflammation in middle ear.If you're dealing with acute otitis media treatment and need personalized care, the specialists at Ascent ENT offer advanced, evidence-based solutions for all age groups.

Ear drops for otitis media are commonly prescribed to ease pain and reduce inflammation, especially in cases where fluid buildup causes discomfort.In moderate to severe cases, otitis media antibiotics may be essential to clear up bacterial infections and prevent complications.For expert diagnosis and management of chronic otitis media, patients often visit the trusted team at Ascent ENT Hospital Perinthalmanna, known for their comprehensive ENT care.

Acute and chronic otitis Media
 

In Acute otitis media, there will be active middle ear infection and child present with sudden onset of ear pain, since the pressure in middle ear increases leading to bulging of ear drum. It may even rupture resulting in draining fluid in the ear canal. In infants and young children symptoms are more often nonspecific, as there is simultaneous respiratory tract infection. Can present with fever, pulling on the ear, fussiness and irritability. Serous otitis media refers to collection of non-infected fluid in middle ear. Children typically have no pain, but fluid can impair hearing. Previous ear infection is the common cause, some children may develop it as a result of a blocked eustachian tube most commonly occurs with enlarged adenoid.The goal of AOM treatment (Acute Otitis Media) is to relieve symptoms, eradicate infection, and prevent recurrence, especially in recurrent episodes.ASOM symptoms (Acute Suppurative Otitis Media) typically include ear pain, fever, irritability, and sometimes fluid drainage from the ear.Depending on the severity, ASOM treatment can involve oral antibiotics, decongestants, and follow-up ear evaluations by an ENT specialist.Chronic otitis media can lead to long-term hearing loss if left untreated, making early diagnosis and proper management crucial.

In case of recurrent serous otitis media it’s mandatory to see for any adenoiditis in children. We can do a pure tone audiometry and Tympanometry to see for any middle ear pathology and hearing loss. In acute otitis media treatment include antibiotics, nasal decongestant, analgesics and antipyretics. Serous otitis media or Otitis media with effusion usually resolves without treatment. To fasten it nasal decongestant, short course of oral steroids can be advised.Some children having recurrent serous otitis media causing decreased hearing may need surgery – that is Myringotomy - to drain the fluid in the middle ear ear by incising the ear drum and to insert a ventilating tube (Grommet) in ear drum. In such patients we should see for chronic adenoiditis and if present need to do adenoidectomy also to clear the route cause.From ear infections to complex surgeries, Ascent ENT Hospital Kozhikode has become a preferred destination for those seeking long-term relief from adult otitis media.

Symptoms of otitis media in children

Symptoms of otitis media in children include earache or pain, difficulty hearing, fever, fussiness, and fluid draining from the ear. In some cases, a child may experience vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Treatment for otitis media typically involves antibiotics and pain relievers. If symptoms persist, a doctor may recommend a myringotomy, which involves inserting a tiny tube through the eardrum to drain out the fluid and allow air to enter the middle ear. Examples include avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke, reducing exposure to allergens and irritants, avoiding exposure to large groups of children, and ensuring that the child receives the recommended vaccinations. Parents should also ensure that their children’s ears are cleaned regularly and that they are kept free of moisture. 

Overall, it is important to seek medical attention if a child is experiencing any of the symptoms of otitis media. Prompt treatment can help reduce the severity and duration of the infection and potentially prevent more serious complications. Ascent Hospital, the best ENT hospital in kerala  has the best doctors for ear infections and excellent service.