Inflammation of the middle ear (otitis media)

Written by Dr Robert Mills, consultant otolaryngologist

Nose drops
Nose drops containing decongestants that can be bought over the counter will reduce the swelling of the mucous membranes lining the nose and the back of the throat.

In theory, the drops allow the Eustachian tubes, which drain the middle ear, to remain open.

Unblocking these tubes will release pressure in the middle ear and so relieve the pain.

Antibiotics
A doctor may sometimes prescribe a course of antibiotics if the inflammation is thought to be caused by bacteria.

It is often difficult to distinguish between bacterial and viral infections. In most cases of middle ear infection, antibiotics have been shown to be of little benefit.

Repeated inflammation
In cases of repeated inflammation, a drainage tube known as a grommet can be placed in the eardrum to drain and ventilate the middle ear.

This is more commonly done in children, but only if they have repeated attacks or their hearing is impaired.

The common name for a build-up of fluid in the middle ear that is not due to an infection is called glue ear.

If children frequently suffer from ear inflammation caused by enlarged adenoids or tonsils, they may be removed surgically.

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