Ear OTC - Otitis Media Flashcards
Define otitis media. (6)
Middle ear inflammation:
- Occurs in area between tympanic membrane in inner ear.
- Common cause otalgia (earache)
- With URTI (cough, rhinorrhoea)
- When middle ear becomes acutely infected (bacterial/viral/fungal) pressure builds up behind the eardrum causing intense pain, fever and hearing loss.
- Tympanic membrane may perforate (suppurative otitis media) = ottorhoea (fluid discharge).
What are the different presentations of the tympanic membrane? (3)
Healthy
Inflamed - bulging and blood vessels injection, limited mobilisation of membrane.
Perforated - suppurative otitis media.
What are the signs of acute otitis media? (5)
Ear pulling
Sleeplessness
Irritability
Fever
Ear drum perforation gives relief and heals naturally.
What are the treatment options for acute otitis media? (1)
Antihistamines/Decongestants/ABx = not recommended.
Analgesics (Paracetamol) preferred tx both adults and children. Ibuprofen.
Otigo 40mg/10mg/g ear drops, solution - Phenazone 40mg, Lidocaine 10mg.
- Phenazone (analgesic + anti-inflammatory)
- Lidocaine (local anaesthetics)
- Licensed: Acute, congestive otitis media.
- For symptomatic tx and relief of pain in middle ear without tympanic perforation.
- Application: 4 drops BD/TDS into external auditory canal of the affected ear.
- Otigo acts locally, dose adjustment based on age not required.
- Suitable for both adults and children.
Who qualifies in the pharmacy first pathway for acute otitis media? (2)
Children 1-17 yrs.
Outline the pharmacy first pathway for otitis media.
What are the main features of otitis media with effusion? (4)
Glue ear: Middle ear inflammation with fluid accumulation:
- W/out signs of acute inflammation.
- Spontaneous resolution.
- Results in conductive hearing loss.
What are the risk factors of glue ear? (7)
Males
Exposure to tobacco smoke
Young age (peak 2 yrs old)
Formula feeding
Season (winter)
Sibling Hx of Glue ear
Link to gastric reflux.
