Overview
Otitis is an inflammation of the middle ear, a common condition in children that can cause pain, hearing problems, and even fever. There are two main types of otitis in children, acute otitis media (AOM) and otitis media with effusion (OME).
Symptoms
The symptoms of otitis in children can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms of AOM include ear pain, fever, decreased hearing, tugging at the ear, and discharge from the ear. Children with OME may have no symptoms, or may experience temporary hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), and a feeling of fullness in the affected ear.
Causes
The causes of otitis in children can be multifactorial, but some of the most common causes include a cold or flu, an upper respiratory infection, exposure to second-hand smoke, and a weakened immune system. Otitis can also be caused by the insertion of foreign objects into the ear, like a cotton swab or fingernail.
Treatment
The treatment for otitis in children will depend on the type and severity of the condition. For AOM, antibiotics are usually prescribed to clear up the infection. In some cases, pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be recommended to relieve pain and reduce fever. For OME, treatment may not be necessary if the fluid drains on its own or if the child does not have any symptoms. If the fluid does not drain or if the child is experiencing symptoms, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics or recommend the use of ear drops to clear the fluid.
Prevention
To prevent otitis in children, it is important to take measures to maintain good overall health and to avoid exposure to situations that increase the risk of infection. This includes getting regular vaccines, avoiding exposure to second-hand smoke, and avoiding insertion of foreign objects into the ear. It is also important to maintain good hygiene and to practice good health habits, like washing hands regularly and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
Citations
- American Academy of Pediatrics. (2017). Otitis Media. Pediatrics, 140(2).
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2017). Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection).
- World Health Organization. (2017). Otitis Media.
