Otitis media with effusion

Otitis media with effusion (OME), also known as glue ear, is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the middle ear without signs of acute infection. This condition is common in children but can also occur in adults.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Otitis media with effusion can vary, but the most common include:

• Hearing loss or difficulty hearing
• Balance problems
• Behavioral changes
• Speech and language delay in children
• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ear)

Causes

OME is often caused by the malfunction of the Eustachian tube, which is responsible for equalizing the pressure in the middle ear. When the Eustachian tube is blocked or does not function properly, fluid can accumulate in the middle ear. This can be due to a number of factors, including:

• Allergies
• Colds and other respiratory infections
• Sinusitis
• Adenoid problems

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Otitis media with effusion is typically made through a physical examination of the ear using an instrument called an otoscope. Other tests that may be used include:

• Tympanometry, which measures the movement of the eardrum
• Audiometry, which tests hearing ability
• Tympanocentesis, which involves removing fluid from the middle ear for testing

Treatment

Treatment for OME depends on the severity of the symptoms and the age of the patient. In many cases, OME resolves on its own without treatment. However, if symptoms persist, treatment options may include:

• Antibiotics
• Corticosteroids
• Ear tubes
• Adenoidectomy

See also

• Otitis media
• Eustachian tube dysfunction
• Tympanostomy tube
• Adenoid hypertrophy

References

Otitis media with effusion Resources
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