Otitis Media (Infections of the Middle Ear) - Eye, Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders

Otitis Media (Infections of the Middle Ear)

The middle ear is the small space between the outer and inner ear which contains three delicates bones–the hammer, anvil, and stirrup–which are essential for hearing. Air pressure is kept constant by the eustachian, or auditory, tube, which leads into the middle ear from the back of the nasal cavity. If a virus or bacteria invades the middle ear, it can cause inflammation and a build-up of fluids which are the two major symptoms of otitis media.

There are several types of otitis media, each defined by their causes. Secretory otitis media is an infection caused by an allergen which enters the middle ear through the eustachian tube. Acute serious otitis media results from a bacterial or viral infection in addition to fluid build up. Acute purient otitis media is caused by pus from a bacterial infection and may result in a ruptured eardrum. Chronic otitis media is caused by an untreated bacterial infection, infected adenoids, or structural deformities of the bones of the middle ear.

Symptoms of the four types of otitis media vary substantially. Most sufferers first experience sharp, stabbing, dull, and/or throbbing pains in the ear. Some bleeding or discharge of pus may occur as well. These symptoms usually result from ruptures of the eardrum through which pus flows. Children with middle ear infections may experience nausea and vomiting. People with chronic otitis media also experience constant swelling in the middle ear. Any indication of a middle ear infection should be referred to an ear specialist. Such infections are not dangerous as long as they are treated before serious complications occur. If left untreated, otitis media can lead to severe complications such as mastoiditis, brain abscesses, or meningitis.