Otitis media

Otitis media is an infection of the middle ear that is most common in children. It is caused by the presence of a virus or bacteria behind the eardrum. Although it only starts with a feeling of congestion, pain can appear and increase, and the inflammation can also cause fever.

There are two types of otitis media:

Acute otitis media

This type of otitis is directly caused by the ear infection, because of the swelling from the bacteria or the virus. It causes pain, hearing impairment, and sometimes fever.

Otitis media with infusion

After the infection goes away, mucus and fluid does not disappear right away and can cause a feeling of congestion and impair hearing, although it is not painful.

Symptoms

Ear pain
Ear congestion
Hearing and balance impairment
Fever

Treatment

Doctors must look at the patient’s age before establishing treatment. Usually, antibiotics are prescribed to ensure no bacterial infection spreads, and ibuprofen can be used to reduce the fever and ear pain. A nasal decongestant can also help with the hearing impairment and the congestion feeling.