08/06/2018
How is the diagnosis of Otitis Media made?
Otitis media occurs when there are a combination of symptoms such as ear pain, reduced hearing with an inflamed ear drum plus fluid behind it. Fever can be present.
In uncomplicated cases no additional testing is usually required. Hearing in otitis media is reduced to a modest amount (20-50db).
X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans are NOT necessary for diagnosis but in persons who have rapidly worsening course, a CT scan/MRI scan may be recommended to evaluate the mastoid sinus area.
What are the complications of Otitis media?
It may spread behind the ear causing a serious infection and occasionally, meningitis. Severe or chronic otitis media may permanently affect hearing and can be associated with dizziness.
The ear drum may perforate. In children, otitis media can reduce hearing at a time that is critical for speech and language development. It is very possible for a child to have chronic reduced hearing, without much pain.
