Middle ear fluid in children: Overview
Fluid often builds up inside the ear during a cold or allergies. Usually the fluid drains away, but sometimes a small tube in the ear, called the eustachian tube, stays blocked for months.
Symptoms of fluid buildup may include:
- Popping, ringing, or a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear. Children often have trouble describing this feeling. They may rub their ears trying to relieve the pressure.
- Trouble hearing. Children who have problems hearing may seem like they are not paying attention. Or they may be grumpy or cranky.
- Balance problems and dizziness.
In most cases, you can treat your child at home.
Middle ear fluid (otitis media with effusion)
Fluid in the space behind the eardrum (middle ear) is called otitis media with effusion. It occurs when a eustachian tube (which connects the throat and middle ear) is blocked. This keeps fluid from draining normally out of the middle ear space and prevents air from entering the middle ear.
Fluid in the middle ear may:
- Cause sounds to be muffled.
- Cause mild discomfort. The pain usually increases with changes in atmospheric pressure, such as increasing cabin pressure when an airplane is coming down to land.
- Create an environment for the growth of viruses or bacteria, which may cause infection. But fluid in the middle ear does not always mean that an infection is present.
The body usually reabsorbs the fluid that is behind the eardrum within weeks. As the fluid is reabsorbed, hearing gradually returns to normal. If fluid is still present in the middle ear after a few months, you and your doctor may talk about having ear tubes placed to help drain the fluid.
How can you care for your child who has fluid in the middle ear?
- In most children, the fluid clears up within a few months without treatment. Have your child's hearing tested if the fluid lasts longer than 3 months.
- If your child uses a pacifier and is more then 12 months old, try to limit its use to only nighttime hours.
- Keeping your child away from secondhand smoke in closed spaces, such as a car or house, can also help the fluid go away.
Middle ear fluid: When to call
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have symptoms of infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- Pus draining from the area.
- A fever.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You notice changes in hearing.
- You do not get better as expected.
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