Risk Of Developing Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection) In Children

Risk Of Developing Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection) In Children

Otitis media is the infection or inflammation of the middle ear. It is commonly caused by a bacterial infection (Streptococcus Pneumoniae 40%, Haemophilus Influenzae 25-30%, Moraxella Catarrhalis 10-15%). Children below 6 years of age have a 60-99% of developing at least one episode of otitis media.
These odds are due to the fact that infants and younger children have less well-developed immunologic defenses and a shorter and more horizontal orientation of the Eustachian tube. It is also common in boys and in homozygotic twins. Socioeconomic status like crowding, suboptimal nutrition, limited hygienic facilities, access to medical care, and resources for medical compliance may contribute to the development of this disease. Otitis media is also high during cold weather months and can be related to tobacco smoke exposure, as well as congenital anomalies like cleft palate, and other craniofacial deformities.

Breast milk feeding and pneumococcal vaccination to a child have shown protective effects and reduction in incidence of otitis media.

Signs and symptoms include (1) Ear pain which can interfere with a child's normal activity and sleep, (2) Irritability, (3) Holding or tugging at the ear, and (4) Fever. Otoscopic findings may reveal an obscured malleus, bulging and redness of the tympanic membrane that may resemble a bagel with central depression. Rupture of the membrane is rate but can occur.

Note: If you suspect Otitis media, please consult your doctor right away.

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