Can adults get serous otitis media?

While it is most prevalent in children, adults can still have issues with serous otitis media, it’s just not as common. 2 (If an adult has otitis media, they should have the nasopharynx checked, as sometimes this can be a sign of nasopharynx cancer.)

What causes serous otitis media in adults?

Acute serous otitis media is usually caused by a blockage in the Eustachian tube as a result of an upper respiratory infection or an allergic attack. Doctors may prescribe medications to kill the bacteria (antibiotics), or antihistamines and decongestants to control allergies.

How is serous otitis treated?

Etiologic treatment of serous otitis rests on restoration of satisfactory nasal ventilation (education to improve nose-blowing, adenoidectomy), improvement of eustachian tube patency (corticosteroids), and modification of the characteristics of middle ear secretions (mucolytic agents and mucomodifying agents).

How long does serous otitis media last?

It is also called serous or secretory otitis media (SOM). This fluid may accumulate in the middle ear as a result of a cold, sore throat or upper respiratory infection. OME is usually self-limited, which means, the fluid usually resolves on its own within 4 to 6 weeks.

Does serous otitis media need antibiotics?

Otitis media with effusion is defined as middle ear effusion in the absence of acute symptoms. Antibiotics, decongestants, or nasal steroids do not hasten the clearance of middle ear fluid and are not recommended.

How is serous otitis media diagnosed?

(Serous Otitis Media; Otitis Media with Effusion) Diagnosis is based on appearance of the tympanic membrane and sometimes on tympanometry. Most cases resolve in 2 to 3 weeks. If there is no improvement in 1 to 3 months, some form of myringotomy is indicated, usually with insertion of a tympanostomy tube.

What are the symptoms of serous otitis media?

Serous otitis media is characterized clinically by ear discomfort, a sensation of fullness in the ear, a conductive hearing loss, and occasional tinnitus. This complication usually resolves with the administration of nasal decongestants but sometimes necessitates a myringotomy.