Otitis media

This is inflammation and infection of the middle ear (just behind the eardrum) caused by poor drainage of fluid through the eustachian tube towards the throat. It is therefore not unusual for otitis to start not long after a cold, especially in babies and children. Symptoms include severe pain in the ears (otalgia), generally feeling unwell, vomiting, hearing loss in the affected ear and fever (in children under 2 years). Although it is not normally serious, it is a common problem in accident & emergency departments. Diagnosis is made by performing a clinical examination and using an otoscope. It is treated with anti-inflammatories and antibiotics, depending on the doctor’s recommendation, to prevent the progression of the disease and complications. If a sudden discharge of yellow or green fluid from the ear is reported, it may mean that there is an eardrum rupture, so you should go to your doctor immediately.