Why is Otitis Media so common in
children?



There are various reasons why children are more likely to suffer from Otitis Media than adults. First, young children have more trouble fighting infections because their immune systems are still developing.

Another reason is related to a child's Eustachian tube, which is shorter and more horizontal than in adults. This contributes to Otitis Media in the following ways. The Eustachian tube usually opens regularly to ventilate or replenish the air in the middle ear and to equalize its air pressure to that of the environment. However, a blocked Eustachian tube, either due to swelling of its lining or plugged with mucus, cannot open properly to ventilate the middle ear. This in turn impedes the drainage of fluid from the middle ear tissue, which collects in the middle ear. Also, the angle of the Eustachian tube in children makes it easier for bacteria from the nose and throat to enter the middle ear.

Enlarged adenoids represent another factor that makes children more susceptible to Otitis Media. Adenoids are positioned in the back of the upper part of the throat near the Eustachian tubes. When enlarged, they can interfere with the Eustachian tube opening. In addition, adenoids may themselves get infected, thereby spreading infection into the Eustachian tubes.

What are the risk factors for developing Otitis Media?


The greatest risk factor for Otitis Media is Eustachian Tube blockage due to an upper respiratory illness such as common cold, flu, throat or sinus infection.


What are the effects of Otitis Media?


Otitis Media causes severe earache, but may result in serious complications if not treated. An untreated infection can travel from the middle ear to the nearby parts of the head, including the brain. Persistent fluid in the middle ear hampers the movement of the eardrum and the three middle ear bones resulting in mild to moderate hearing loss. Although this hearing loss is usually temporary, untreated otitis media may lead to permanent hearing impairment. Persistent fluid in the middle ear and chronic otitis media can reduce a child's hearing at a time that is critical for speech and language development, leading to speech and language disabilities.