What is Otitis Media?
Otitis media is an infection or inflammation of the middle ear, the small air-filled space behind the eardrum. It is most common in children but can also affect adults.
Acute Otitis Media
The most common type. Symptoms appear suddenly, usually after a viral infection such as a cold or flu.
Otitis Media with Effusion (Glue Ear)
Fluid remains behind the eardrum without active infection. This often causes hearing reduction and is common in children.
Recurrent Otitis Media
Several episodes occur within a short period. More common in children with frequent colds, allergies, or enlarged adenoids.
What Causes Otitis Media?
Common causes include:
- Viral upper respiratory infections
- Bacterial infection
- Nasal congestion from allergies
- Enlarged adenoids
- Passive smoke exposure
- Bottle-feeding while lying flat
- Family history of ear infections
What Are the Common Symptoms of Otitis Media?
- Ear pain, sometimes severe
- Reduced or muffled hearing
- Fever
- Irritability in children
- Ear pulling or rubbing
- Discharge from the ear if the eardrum perforates
- Headache
- A feeling of fullness or pressure
- Poor sleep or feeding in infants
How Is Otitis Media Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on symptoms and examination of the eardrum.
During an online GP consultation we can:
- Assess your symptoms
- Advise whether antibiotics are likely to help
- Recommend safe pain relief
- Provide private prescriptions if appropriate
- Guide on whether you or your child needs an in-person examination
You may need to be seen in person if symptoms are severe, persistent, recurrent, or associated with significant hearing loss.
How Long Does Otitis Media Last?
- Most cases improve within 2 to 3 days with pain relief
- Full recovery may take up to a week
- Glue ear may persist for weeks, requiring monitoring or treatment
Is Otitis Media Contagious?
No, otitis media itself is not contagious, but the viral infections that can trigger it can spread between people.
How to Feel Better and Recover Quickly
Self-Care at Home
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain and fever
- Apply a warm compress over the ear
- Keep well hydrated
- Elevate the head when resting
- Avoid using cotton buds
Antibiotics
May be prescribed when:
- Symptoms are severe or last more than 2 to 3 days
- There is ear discharge
- The patient is under 2 years old with infection in both ears
- The patient is at higher risk due to underlying medical conditions
Most adults and older children improve without antibiotics.
If the Eardrum Perforates
- Fluid or discharge may appear, but pain often improves quickly
- Keep the ear dry and avoid swimming until healed
Treating Glue Ear (Otitis Media with Effusion)
- Usually settles over weeks
- Options include watchful waiting, treating allergies if present, or referral to ENT if symptoms persist or hearing is affected
When Referral Is Needed
ENT assessment may be required if:
- Hearing does not return to normal
- There are repeated infections
- Glue ear persists
- Complications occur, such as persistent discharge or suspected mastoiditis (infection spreading behind the ear onto the bone)
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
Go to A&E or urgent care if you have:
- Severe or worsening ear pain
- A very high fever
- Swelling around or behind the ear
- The ear sticking out or severe tenderness behind it
- Weakness of the facial muscles
- Severe headache, stiff neck, or dizziness
- Symptoms in a baby under 3 months
- Symptoms in someone with diabetes or reduced immunity
Call 999 if symptoms are severe or life-threatening.
How Dr.Online UK Can Help
We offer:
- Same-day online GP appointments
- Expert assessment and personalised guidance
- Private prescriptions where clinically appropriate
- ENT referral letters
Clear advice on whether you or your child needs in-person care
