Otitis Media Doctor in Indore

Otitis Media refers to an infection or inflammation of the middle ear, the area located behind the eardrum that houses tiny bones used for hearing.

It typically occurs when the Eustachian tube (a narrow tube that connects the middle ear to the throat) gets blocked, usually after a cold, flu, allergy, or respiratory illness. This blockage causes fluid and germs (germs in the form of bacteria or viruses) to accumulate, resulting in infection.

It is most prevalent among young children but also affects adults.

Forms of Otitis Media

Acute Otitis Media (AOM):

Sudden infection with earache, fever, and fluid behind the eardrum.

Otitis Media with Effusion (OME):

Fluid continues to be trapped behind the eardrum after infection, but without current symptoms.

Chronic Otitis Media:

Recurrent or ongoing infections that may destroy the ear and interfere with hearing.

Otitis Media symptoms

In Children:

• Ear pain (worse when lying down)

• Pulling or rubbing the ear

• Crying or irritability

• Difficulty hearing or responding to sounds

• Fever

• Drainage of fluid or pus from the ear

• Loss of appetite

• Difficulty sleeping

• In Adults:

• Earache or pressure

• Hearing loss (muffled sounds)

• Fluid discharge from the ear

• Fullness or feeling of blockage

• Dizziness or imbalance

• Fever (occasionally)

Prevention of Otitis Media

Although you can't always avoid ear infections, you can reduce the chance with good practices and medical care.

1. Prevent Colds and Respiratory Infections

Wash your hands often to prevent germs from spreading.

Steer clear of people with illnesses.

Educate children to cover their nose and mouth when they sneeze or cough.

Keep the immune system healthy through a nutritious diet and plenty of sleep.

2. Minimize Ear Irritation

Stay away from secondhand smoke — tobacco smoke irritates the ear and throat mucous membranes.

Manage allergies before they cause nasal stuffiness and earplugging.

Maintain the nasal passages with saline drops or humidifiers.

Do not put anything in the ear canal (such as cotton swabs).

3. Breastfeeding and Feeding Advice (for Babies)

Breastfeed for a minimum of 6 months — enhances immune protection.

Feed babies upright (not in bed) to stop milk from getting into the middle ear.

Don't prop up bottles — can raise the risk of infection.

4. Vaccinations

Get the flu vaccine each year.

The pneumococcal (PCV13) vaccine protects against bacteria that often cause ear infections.

5. Home and Medical Care

Pain relief: Follow directions with paracetamol (acetaminophen) or ibuprofen.

Warm compress: Relieves pain in the ear.

Antibiotics: Only on prescription for a bacterial infection.

Ear tubes: In cases that keep returning, doctors might put tiny tubes in to allow drainage of fluid and avert repeat infections.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Ear pain persisting beyond 2–3 days

Fluid, pus, or blood draining from the ear

Trouble hearing or feeling dizzy

High fever (≥ 38.5°C / 101°F)

Chronic ear infections (3 or more in 6 months)