Serous Otitis Media Symptoms, Causes, Treatment Methods, and Advanced Treatment Options
General Information About Serous Otitis Media
Serous otitis media, commonly known as fluid buildup in the middle ear or effusive otitis media, is an ear condition frequently seen in children. In this condition, a clear fluid accumulates in the middle ear cavity without any signs of infection. Although it is more common in childhood, it can also occur in adults.
Causes of Serous Otitis Media
Serous otitis media usually develops due to dysfunction of the Eustachian tube. The Eustachian tube is a channel that allows air to pass between the nasopharynx and the middle ear. Blockage or malfunction of this tube leads to negative pressure and fluid accumulation in the middle ear. The main causes of blockage include upper respiratory tract infections, allergies, enlarged adenoids, and sinusitis.
What are the symptoms?
• Decreased hearing (feeling of fullness in the ear)
• Delayed speech and language development in children
• Rarely, ear pain or mild discomfort
• Balance problems
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Serous otitis media usually progresses without pain, so children in particular may not be able to express their complaints. Therefore, conditions such as hearing loss, behavioral changes, or academic failure should be carefully observed.
Diagnostic Methods
Diagnosis is made through ear examination and tests that measure pressure in the middle ear, such as tympanometry. In addition, hearing tests (audiometry) are used to assess the degree of hearing loss.
Treatment Options
Treatment for serous otitis media primarily aims to eliminate the underlying causes. In most cases, especially within the first 3 months, the disease may resolve on its own. However, in long-term or recurrent cases, the following treatment methods may be applied:
• Medical Treatment: Allergy treatment, nasal decongestant sprays, or antibiotics may be used as recommended by the doctor.
• Surgical Intervention: A ventilation tube may be inserted into the eardrum to drain fluid from the middle ear.
• Types of Ventilation Tubes:
• Grommet (Short-Term Tube): This is the most commonly used type of ventilation tube. It usually remains in the ear for 6-12 months and falls out on its own. It is particularly suitable for short-term follow-up of serous otitis media.
• T Tube (Long-Term Tube): Can remain in the ear for a longer period of time (sometimes years). It is preferred in recurrent or chronic cases. It has a wider opening than a grommet tube and usually does not fall out on its own; it must be removed.
Adenoid Surgery: If the adenoids are enlarged, they can be removed through a surgical procedure called adenoidectomy.
Adhesive Otitis Media
Adhesive otitis media develops when fluid buildup in the middle ear persists for a long time, causing the eardrum to stick to the ossicles and the middle ear wall. In this case, the eardrum thins and loses its elasticity, and hearing loss worsens. Adhesive otitis media usually occurs as a result of untreated serous otitis media or its prolonged continuation. In advanced cases, surgical treatment (such as tympanoplasty) may be necessary.
Do Not Neglect Checkups
It is necessary to attend regular doctor checkups during the healing process. If you experience any signs of infection (redness, excessive pain, discharge) or an unexpected situation, consult your doctor without delay. Early diagnosis saves lives; this saying also applies to this process.
Prevention and Precautions
Preventing upper respiratory tract infections, avoiding exposure to cigarette smoke, and staying away from allergens reduces the risk of serous otitis media. In addition, children's hearing and speech development should be monitored regularly.
Conclusion
Although serous otitis media is not usually a serious disease, it should be monitored carefully as it can lead to hearing loss and associated developmental problems. Ventilation tubes such as grommets and T tubes play an important role in treatment. Since adhesive otitis media can develop in the presence of long-term fluid, it is important to consult an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist without delay in cases of hearing loss or suspected cases in children.