What’s serous otitis media?

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Serous otitis media is a disease typically characterized by fluid retention in the middle ear chamber. A previous ear infection or upper respiratory infection can be a common cause of this condition. The disorder is often seen in younger children, although adults can also develop it. You may experience hearing difficulties due to fluid buildup in the middle ear. If the problem persists, antibiotics may be recommended; in some cases, surgery to drain the fluid might be done.

This condition is also referred to as otitis media with effusion. Serous otitis media can be acute or chronic if it persists for months. It may cause a feeling of pressure in the ear and can affect hearing as the accumulated fluid tends to impede the transmission of sound vibrations. This can interfere with speech understanding. In the case of children, the condition could impact the advancement of language, learning and conduct.

Sometimes an ear infection leaves fluid in the middle ear area which could develop into symptoms after infection. Ear fluid can build up from a cold or allergy attack, causing blockage of the Eustachian tube that extends from the middle ear to the throat area. Because of the blockage, fluid may not flow out of the middle ear. Sometimes blockage of the Eustachian tube could be due to enlargement of the adenoids located around the opening of the Eustachian tube.

Being subjected to a change in air pressure, such as can happen when traveling by plane, can affect the Eustachian tube. This could lead to symptoms of acute serous otitis media. In rare cases, the presence of a tumor or growth in the Eustachian tube may be an underlying factor in the condition in adults.

To diagnose serous otitis media, a doctor usually examines the eardrum, which is a part of the middle ear. Air can be squeezed into the ear to control the movement of the eardrum. Sometimes a simple test known as tympanometry, which involves the use of a device with a microphone and sound source, may be conducted. This test evaluates fluid accumulation behind the eardrum and Eustachian tube function.

Normally, the accumulated ear fluid can clear up within a few weeks after a cold or ear infection clears up. If the condition persists, a doctor might prescribe a course of medication that includes antibiotics. Surgery to insert drainage tubes may be recommended if symptoms are not relieved even after three months or if an ear infection occurs frequently. Typically, an ear, nose, and throat specialist can evaluate a patient and prescribe appropriate treatment for serous otitis media.
A myringotomy is one of the surgical techniques that could be used to treat the condition. This procedure usually involves inserting a small tube into the eardrum of the affected ear to drain the fluid and allow air to reach the middle ear area to relieve pressure. The tube usually stays in the ear for 12 to 12 months and then comes off. In some cases, a doctor might recommend surgery to remove enlarged adenoids, thus helping the Eustachian tube work better.

The incidence of the condition could be reduced by taking some precautions. These include minimizing exposure to factors that trigger allergy attacks. Another measure is to avoid flying if you have a cold if possible. Breastfeeding often reduces the likelihood of ear infections in childhood. Enrolling a child in daycare with a smaller group of children can help prevent recurring ear infections and, as a result, ear fluid disorders as well.

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