Otitis Media With Effusion
Otitis media with effusion is fluid in the space behind the eardrum
(middle ear). This condition occurs when a blockage of the tube that connects
the throat and middle ear (eustachian tube) prevents fluid from draining
normally out of the middle ear space and prevents air from entering the middle
ear.
Fluid in the middle ear may:
- Cause sounds to be muffled.
- Cause
mild discomfort. The pain usually increases with changes in atmospheric
pressure, such as increasing cabin pressure when an airplane is coming down to
land.
- Create an environment for the growth of viruses or bacteria,
which may cause infection. But fluid in the middle ear does not always
mean that an infection is present.
The body usually reabsorbs the fluid that is behind the eardrum within
weeks. As the fluid is reabsorbed, hearing gradually returns to normal. If
fluid is still present in the middle ear after a few months, or if it is accompanied
by prolonged fever and other symptoms, then antibiotic treatment may be
needed.
Last Revised:
September 10, 2012
Author:
Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics & Charles M. Myer, III, MD - Otolaryngology
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