Otitis media

Otitis media is an infection or inflammation of the middle ear, which is the space behind the eardrum. It’s common in young children but can happen to anyone. The infection is usually caused by bacteria or viruses, often after a cold or respiratory infection.

Symptoms of otitis media include:

• Ear pain
• Trouble hearing (due to fluid buildup)
• Fever
• Feeling of fullness in the ear
• In young children, fussiness or trouble sleeping

In some cases, fluid may drain from the ear. Most ear infections go away on their own, but sometimes doctors prescribe antibiotics to help clear up the infection. If left untreated, otitis media can sometimes cause hearing problems, so it’s important to get it checked if the pain is severe or lasts a while.