Middle Ear Inflammation in Children

Middle ear infections, which present with symptoms such as ear pain, congestion, and hearing loss in children, are among the most common illnesses seen in children, particularly during the winter season.Children typically contract this condition several times before the age of 5.Upper respiratory tract infections, adenoids, enlarged tonsils, allergies, a weakened immune system, anatomical abnormalities, and genetic predisposition are among the most common causes of otitis media.

The high prevalence of this condition in children stems from the Eustachian tube being horizontal and short. This makes it easier for bacteria to reach the middle ear. Most children contract this infection several times by the age of 5; however, experiencing middle ear infections more than three times in a six-month period indicates a tendency toward chronicity.

What are the symptoms?

The most common symptom of middle ear infection in children is ear pain. Hearing loss, a feeling of fullness in the ear, and a sensation of blockage are also among the symptoms. Additionally, symptoms such as irritability, frequent crying, and difficulty feeding may appear in infants. In such cases, it is essential to consult a doctor as soon as possible. A high fever, stiff neck, and vomiting may indicate serious complications of middle ear infection and require immediate consultation with an ENT specialist.

When should surgery be performed for fluid in the middle ear?

Fluid in the middle ear is a side effect of middle ear infection. Once a definitive diagnosis has been made, the primary goal is to eliminate the infection in the ear through treatment of the fluid in the middle ear using antibiotics, additional supportive therapies, and preventive measures. If the child’s hearing loss is mild and there is no significant or frequent buildup of fluid in the ear, urgent surgery is not necessary. However, if episodes of fluid buildup become more frequent or persistent, hearing loss continues to worsen, and this finding is confirmed by a tympanogram test, surgery must be performed as soon as possible. Middle ear surgery can be performed by making an incision in the eardrum or by inserting a tube into the ear. The primary goal is to drain the accumulated fluid by making an incision in the eardrum; however, if the fluid cannot be completely drained, a tube is inserted into the ear to relieve the child’s discomfort.

What can you do to prevent middle ear infections?

Babies should be breastfed. Since breast milk helps keep the immune system stronger, it also reduces the risk of getting sick.Proper hygiene for babies and children must be maintainedChildren must not be exposed to cigarette smoke under any circumstancesSince upper respiratory infections spread more quickly in crowded environments—and consequently increase the likelihood of middle ear infections—babies and children should be kept away from such places as much as possible

Kaynakça:

• American Academy of Pediatrics. (2013). The Diagnosis and Management of Acute Otitis Media. Pediatrics, 131(3), e964–e999.

• American Academy of Family Physicians., American Academy of Pediatrics., & American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. (2016). Otitis Media with Effusion Clinical Practice Guideline Update.

• World Health Organization. (2004). Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media: Burden of Illness and Management Options.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Updated). Ear Infection (Otitis Media).

• Turkish Society of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery. (Current Clinical Information Publications).

• Turkish Pediatric Society. (Guidelines on Upper Respiratory Tract Infections and Otitis Media in Children).