Chronic Otitis Media: A Serious Ear Infection
                     Chronic Otitis Media: A Serious Ear 
Infection 
Chronic Otitis Media is a serious ear infection that can cause complications if not treated 
properly. The infection can lead to hearing loss, speech problems, and even meningitis. 
Treatment for Chronic Otitis Media often includes antibiotics and surgery. 
 
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms it is important to see a doctor as soon as 
possible: fever, ear pain, changes in behavior or mood, severe dizziness or nausea from the 
pressure on your eardrum. These symptoms may be signs of more serious health 
conditions such as meningitis or an abscessed tooth which must be dealt with quickly 
before they have time to spread. 
 
1. What is Chronic Otitis Media  
Chronic Otitis Media is a serious ear infection that can cause complications if not treated 
properly. The infection can lead to hearing loss, speech problems, and even meningitis. 
Treatment for Chronic Otitis Media often includes antibiotics and surgery. 
 
2. Causes of Chronic Otitis Media  
Chronic Otitis Media (COM) is an infection of the middle ear that can become chronic, or 
long-lasting. It is a common condition, particularly in children. COM usually occurs when 
there is a buildup of fluid in the middle ear (effusion), which may be due to allergies, colds, 
or other respiratory infections. When fluid builds up in the middle ear, it provides an ideal 
environment for bacteria to grow and thrive. These bacteria can then infect the 
surrounding tissues and cause further inflammation. 
 
COM is often first treated with antibiotics, which can help to clear the infection and reduce 
the risk of complications. However, in some cases, the fluid in the middle ear may need to 
be drained surgically. This procedure is known as a myringotomy. In children, COM often 
goes away on its own without any treatment. However, some children may require multiple 
courses of antibiotics or surgery to clear the infection. 
 
3. Symptoms of Chronic Otitis Media  
Symptoms of COM can vary depending on the severity of the infection. In most cases, 
people with COM will experience symptoms such as: 
Ear pain 
Drainage from the ear 
Hearing loss 
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) 
Vertigo (dizziness) 
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. 
In some cases, COM can lead to serious complications such as meningitis or an abscessed 
tooth. Therefore, it is important to seek treatment early to avoid these potentially life-
threatening conditions. 
 
4. Treatment for Chronic Otitis Media  
Treatment for COM usually involves antibiotics and/or surgery. In most cases, antibiotics 
are the first line of treatment. These medications can help to clear the infection and reduce 
the risk of complications. However, in some cases, surgery may be necessary to drain the 
fluid from the middle ear. This procedure is known as a myringotomy. 
Myringotomy is a surgical procedure that involves making a small incision in the eardrum 
to allow the fluid to drain from the middle ear. This procedure is typically performed under 
general anesthesia. In most cases, myringotomy is a safe and effective treatment for COM. 
However, as with any surgery, there are some risks involved. These risks include: 
Bleeding 
Infection 
Damage to the eardrum or surrounding structures 
Complications from myringotomy are rare but can occur. If you experience any 
complications after surgery, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible. 
 
5. Prevention of Chronic Otitis Media  
Prevention of COM is often difficult because the underlying causes (allergies, colds, etc.) are 
often out of our control. However, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of 
developing COM. These include: 
Washing your hands regularly 
Avoiding contact with people who are sick 
Not sharing personal items (towels, cups, etc.) with others 
Avoiding smoke and other irritants  
If you or your child has an ear infection, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. 
Early treatment can help to prevent complications and ensure a speedy recovery. 
 
6. FAQs about Chronic Otitis Media 
What are the symptoms of Chronic Otitis Media? 
Symptoms of Chronic Otitis Media can vary depending on the severity of the infection. In 
most cases, people with COM will experience symptoms such as:  
Ear pain 
Drainage from the ear 
Hearing loss 
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) 
Vertigo (dizziness)  
 
How does Chronic Otitis Media affect hearing? 
Chronic Otitis Media can lead to permanent hearing loss if it is not treated properly. This 
hearing loss can be caused by damage to the ear drum, infection of the inner ear, or fluid 
build-up in the middle ear. In some cases, chronic otitis media can lead to total deafness. 
Early treatment is key to preventing any long-term damage. 
 
What are the complications of Chronic Omits media? 
The complications of Chronic Otitis Media can vary depending on the severity and when 
you were born. In most cases, it is not harmful to your hearing or other parts of your body. 
However, if left untreated, chronic otitis media can lead to permanent hearing loss and 
even an abscessed tooth. 
 
Can chronic otitis media lead to meningitis or an abscessed 
tooth? 
Yes, chronic otitis media can lead to meningitis or an abscessed tooth. In some cases, the 
infection can spread to the brain or other parts of the body and cause serious 
complications. It is important to seek treatment early if you suspect you have chronic otitis 
media to avoid these potentially life-threatening conditions. 
 
Chronic Otitis Media is a serious ear infection that can cause complications if not treated 
properly. The infection can lead to hearing loss, speech problems, and even meningitis. 
Treatment for Chronic Otitis Media often includes antibiotics and surgery. Prevention of 
Chronic Otitis Media is often difficult because the underlying causes (allergies, colds, etc.) 
are often out of our control. However, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk 
of developing COM. These include: washing your hands regularly, avoiding contact with 
people who are sick, not sharing personal items (towels cups), avoiding smoke and other 
irritants If you or your child has an ear infection it is important to see a doctor as soon as 
possible Early treatment can help to prevent complications and ensure a speedy recovery.