Otitis Media (cont.)
What causes chronic otitis media?
The Eustachian tube normally prevents the accumulation of fluid by allowing fluid to drain through the tube. Chronic otitis media develops over time, and often starts with a chronic middle ear effusion (fluid) that does not resolve. This persistent fluid will often become contaminated with bacteria, and the bacteria found in chronic otitis media are often different from those found in acute otitis media. Therefore, anything that disturbs the function of the
Eustachian tube can lead to chronic otitis media.
What happens to the eardrum in chronic otitis media?
The eardrum (tympanic membrane) has three delicate layers that help keep the eardrum thin, but strong. A chronic middle ear infection causes changes in the eardrum that weaken it, and often lead to a hole in the eardrum (tympanic membrane perforation). Eventually, the eardrum looses its strength and begins to collapse into the middle ear space.
When the eardrum collapses, it can attach to the other middle ear structures. It is frequently seen draped around the middle ear bones (ossicles) or the inner wall of the middle ear (promontory). This disrupts the conduction of sound through the middle ear, and may diminish hearing.
What happens to the eardrum if a hole develops in the eardrum?
A hole that forms in the eardrum (tympanic membrane perforation) usually causes a chronic draining ear, or a condition called chronic otitis media with perforation. Often the drainage (otorrhea) will have a foul odor and can be seen draining from the ear. Hearing can improve after the middle ear fluid is released, or it may worsen secondary to the inflammation in the middle ear.
How is chronic otitis media treated?
Initially, antibiotics may resolve the infection. If a tympanic membrane perforation is also present, topical antibiotic drops may be used. If eardrum or ossicle scarring has occurred, that will not be reversed with antibiotics alone. Surgery is often indicated to repair the tympanic membrane (eardrum), remove the infected tissue and scar from the middle ear and the mastoid bone.
Next: What are the goals of chronic otitis media surgery? »
- amoxicillin, Amoxil, Dispermox, Trimox - Learn more about amoxicillin, including a description, generic and brand names, drug class and mechanism, preparations, storage, reasons for prescription, dosing, effect on pregnancy and nursing mothers, and common side effects.
- Ear Tubes - Learn about ear tubes (myringotomy), a procedure that allows ventilation in the middle ear. Pre-surgery, during surgery, post surgery, and follow-up information is included.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes - Read about swollen lymph nodes what causes them. Causes include infection, inflammation, or cancer. Swollen lymph nodes are not always a sign of disease.
Latest Medical News
Hearing RSS