ENT Flashcards
what is otitis media
infection of the middle ear
common cause of otitis media
strep pneumoniae
clinical presentation of otitis media
decreased hearing
sore throat
coryza
ear pain
fever
why are infants and young children more prone
their eustachian tubes are short, horizontal and function poorly
examination in otitis media
bulging red and inflamed
discharge if perforation
management for otitis media
self limiting within a few days
but abx necessary if systemically unwell or high risk of complications
5-7 days of amox or clarithromycin
what is glue ear
middle ear fills up with fluid which can cause temporary hearing loss
which age range is usually affected in glue ear
under 7
commonly 2-5yrs
clinical presentation of glue ear
hearing loss
ear pain
tinnitus
management of glue ear
often clears up on its own within 3 months but
temporary hearing aids
grommets
when should children with glue ear be referred to a specialist
- symptoms are affecting learning and development - slt
- severe hearing loss before glue ear
- downs syndrome or cleft lip and palate - less likely to get better by itself