Otitis media
Otitis media is a medical condition that involves inflammation of the middle ear, which is the space behind the eardrum. It can occur in both children and adults, but is most common in children.
The symptoms of otitis media can include ear pain, fever, difficulty hearing, and sometimes a discharge from the ear. Children may also be irritable or have trouble sleeping. The condition can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection, and may occur as a complication of a cold or upper respiratory infection.
Treatment for otitis media depends on the severity of the symptoms and the underlying cause. In many cases, the condition will resolve on its own within a few days to a week, and pain relief medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be recommended to manage symptoms.
If the condition is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. If the symptoms are severe or recurrent, surgery to insert small tubes in the ears (known as tympanostomy tubes) may be recommended to help drain excess fluid and prevent future infections.
Prevention of otitis media includes good hygiene practices, such as washing hands regularly, and avoiding exposure to second-hand smoke. Vaccines against certain bacterial strains that can cause otitis media are also available for children.
