Otitis Media

Otitis media is infection of the middle ear. It is a common disorder of childhood, usually in association with infection of the upper respiratory tract (a cold). This causes the Eustachian tube to become blocked, and secretions in the middle ear become infected. The increased pressure in the ear causes pain. The eardrum may perforate and the infected mucous discharge through the ear canal. When the drum perforates the pain disappears. Repeated attacks of otitis media may result in glue ear, and a consequent reduction in hearing.
 
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