About this topic
The Eustachian tube allows fluid to drain from the middle ear. Sometimes, fluid cannot drain from the tube. This may cause an acute or chronic problem known as serous otitis media. An acute problem is one that does not last for a long time. Acute serous media is often caused by an infection or allergy. A chronic problem is one that lasts for a long time. Chronic serous otitis media may happen when there is a long-lasting block in the tube. Sometimes, the fluid is too thick to drain from the tube. ‚
This problem may go away on its own without treatment. Other times, the fluid may become infected. You may have ear infections more often. You may not be able to hear as well. Your ears may feel like they are full. ‚
What are the causes?
Serous otitis media happens when something blocks the Eustachian tube. Sometimes, you are born with this problem. Other causes may include: ‚
- Infection
- Allergy
- Irritants like cigarette smoke
- Drinking when lying down
- Increase in air pressure like when flying
- Enlarged adenoids
- Cleft palate
What can make this more likely to happen?
Young children are more likely to have this problem. Kids get more colds. They have ear tubes that are not a developed as those of an adult. Having a problem you were born with may cause a block. Having many colds or allergies may make you more at risk. ‚
What are the main signs?
- Trouble hearing
- Pulling on the ear
- Problems with balance
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will take your history. Your doctor will do an exam and check your ears with a special tool. The doctor will look for changes to the eardrum. The doctor may order: ‚
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Your doctor will treat the problem based on what the cause is. Sometimes, surgery may be needed to remove fluid. Ear tubes may be put in to open the Eustachian tube. ‚
Are there other health problems to treat?
If enlarged adenoids are the problem, you may need surgery to remove them. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
Your doctor may order drugs based on what problems you are having. The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Help with pain and swelling
- Fight an infection
- Treat an allergy
What problems could happen?
- Infection could come back
- Loss of hearing
- Problems with speech
- Scarring on the eardrum
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- If you smoke, quit. Do not go near people who smoke.
- Stay away from people who have colds.
- If you have allergies, make sure you are treated for them.
- Wash your hands often.
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Otolaryngology ¢ ˆ ’ Head and Neck Surgery ‚
http://www.entnet.org/HealthInformation/Earaches.cfm ‚
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders ‚
http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/staticresources/health/healthyhearing/tools/pdf/OtitisMedia.pdf ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚