Medical Encyclopedia

 

Medical Encyclopedia

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Otitis

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Ear anatomy
Ear anatomy
Medical findings based on ear anatomy
Medical findings based on ear anatomy
Middle ear infection (otitis media)
Middle ear infection (otitis media)

Alternative Names    Return to top

Ear infection; Infection - ear

Definition    Return to top

Otitis is a general term for infection or inflammation of the ear.

Causes    Return to top

Otitis can affect the inner or outer parts of the ear. The condition is classified according to whether it occurs suddenly and for a short time (acute) or repeatedly over a long period of time (chronic).

Specific types of ear infection include:

Symptoms    Return to top

Symptoms may include:

Exams and Tests    Return to top

Your health care provider will examine your ears and use an instrument called an otoscope to look inside them. Signs that may be seen during an exam include a red, painful outer ear or redness or swelling of the eardrum.

Treatment    Return to top

Treatment may include antibiotics or ear drops, depending on the suspected cause of the infection.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

Most types of ear infection respond well to treatment. If there is no improvement after 3 days, your doctor may recommend a different antibiotic. In certain uncomplicated cases, a child over 6 months of age who does not have a fever may not be given medicine unless the infection continues after 48-72 hours. For more specific outlooks and recommendations, see the following articles:

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of otitis.

Update Date: 12/1/2008

Updated by: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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