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Jonathan Hughes | Hemel Hempstead

Otitis Media with Effusion (OME)

Also known as serous otitis media, it is a condition where fluid accumulates in the middle ear behind the eardrum, without an active infection. This fluid buildup often results from an earlier ear infection, allergy, or cold that has caused the Eustachian tube (which connects the middle ear to the throat) to become blocked or dysfunctional. While there may not be active pain or inflammation, common symptoms include a feeling of fullness in the ear, hearing loss, or a “popping” sensation. In some cases, there may be mild discomfort, but the condition generally resolves on its own. However, if the fluid persists or causes significant hearing problems, medical treatment or intervention (such as drainage or the placement of ear tubes) may be required.

Acute Otitis Media (AOM)

A common middle ear infection characterised by sudden inflammation and infection of the middle ear, often caused by bacteria or viruses. It typically develops after a cold, respiratory infection, or sinus infection, which causes fluid buildup behind the eardrum. Symptoms of AOM include sharp ear pain, fever, irritability (especially in children), difficulty hearing, fluid drainage from the ear, and sometimes trouble sleeping. The condition is more common in children but can affect adults as well. Treatment may involve pain relievers, antibiotics (if bacterial), or other supportive care, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be needed to drain the fluid or relieve pressure. Most cases of acute otitis media improve with treatment and do not cause long-term damage.

Chronic Otitis Media (COM)

A long-term, persistent inflammation or infection of the middle ear that can last for weeks, months, or even years. Unlike acute otitis media, which typically resolves with treatment, chronic otitis media may be caused by repeated infections, poor Eustachian tube function, or underlying conditions like allergies or sinus problems. The main symptoms include recurring ear infections, fluid drainage, hearing loss, and sometimes discomfort or pain. Over time, chronic otitis media can lead to more serious complications, such as damage to the eardrum, bones in the ear, or even hearing loss if left untreated. Treatment often involves medication (such as antibiotics or ear drops), and in some cases, surgery may be needed to repair the eardrum or drain fluid.

If you think you might have otitis media, get in touch with our ENT specialist in London to book a consultation. Call 020 3897 0667, visit our contact page, or email secretary.jonathanhughes@kmsprofessionals.co.uk 

What is otitis media with effusion (OME)?

Otitis media with effusion (OME) is a condition in which fluid accumulates in the middle ear behind the eardrum, without any active infection. It often follows an ear infection, cold, or allergy, and can cause a feeling of fullness in the ear and hearing loss.

What causes otitis media with effusion?

OME is usually caused by a blockage or dysfunction of the Eustachian tube, which can occur after a cold, upper respiratory infection, or allergies. This blockage prevents fluid from draining out of the middle ear, leading to its accumulation.

What are the symptoms of otitis media with effusion?

Common symptoms of OME include a sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear, hearing loss (often mild), a feeling of “popping” in the ear, and in some cases, mild discomfort. However, OME may not always cause pain or noticeable symptoms.

What is acute otitis media (AOM)?

Acute otitis media (AOM) is a sudden middle ear infection caused by bacterial or viral infections, often following a cold, respiratory infection, or sinusitis. It leads to inflammation and fluid buildup behind the eardrum, causing pain, fever, and other symptoms.

What are the common symptoms of acute otitis media?

Common symptoms of AOM include sharp ear pain, fever, irritability (particularly in children), difficulty hearing, fluid drainage from the ear, and sometimes trouble sleeping. Children may also tug or pull at their ears.

What is chronic otitis media (COM)?

Chronic otitis media (COM) is a long-lasting infection or inflammation of the middle ear that persists for weeks, months, or even years. It is often characterised by recurring ear infections, fluid drainage, and hearing loss. Unlike acute otitis media, it doesn’t resolve quickly and can cause lasting damage to the ear structures.

What causes chronic otitis media?

Chronic otitis media is usually the result of repeated ear infections, poor Eustachian tube function, or underlying conditions like allergies, sinus problems, or a history of ear infections. It can also be caused by a persistent infection that never fully clears up.