hearing loss Flashcards
What is otitis media effusion?
Otitis media effusion is the presence of fluid in the middle ear without signs or symptoms of acute infection.
True or False: Otitis media diffusion caused by cold, sore throat / upper respiratory tract infection
True
What are the common symptoms of otitis media effusion?
Hearing loss,
feeling of fullness
pressure in the ear
young children may pull their ear,
aural fullness ( a sensation of blockage in the ear)
What is the most common cause of otitis media effusion?
Eustachian tube dysfunction.
How is otitis media effusion diagnosed?
Through otoscopic examination and tympanometry or auditometry. Mediacal history and physical exam
True or False: Otitis media effusion is always associated with acute ear infection.
False
What is the treatment for otitis media effusion?
Observation, antibiotics if there is acute infection, and surgical intervention in some cases.
What is the role of tympanostomy tubes in managing otitis media effusion?
Tympanostomy tubes can help drain fluid from the middle ear and improve hearing.
What age group is most commonly affected by otitis media effusion?
Children
What is the impact of otitis media effusion on hearing?
Otitis media effusion can cause conductive hearing loss.
What imaging studies can be used to evaluate otitis media effusion?
Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
What is the role of nasal decongestants in managing otitis media effusion?
Nasal decongestants may help reduce eustachian tube congestion.
What is the primary goal of treating otitis media effusion?
To alleviate symptoms and improve hearing.
What is the typical appearance of the tympanic membrane in otitis media effusion?
Retracted or dull with decreased mobility.
What is the most common complication of otitis media effusion?
Hearing loss.
If young children—speech and language delays
Infection risk—otitis media acute
What are the risk factors for developing otitis media effusion?
Young age, exposure to secondhand smoke, and history of recurrent ear infections.
What is the mechanism of eustachian tube dysfunction in otitis media effusion?
Impaired ability of the eustachian tube to equalize pressure in the middle ear.
What is the role of audiometry in evaluating otitis media effusion?
Audiometry can assess the degree of hearing loss associated with otitis media effusion.
What is the recommended follow-up for otitis media effusion?
Regular monitoring to assess resolution or progression of symptoms.
What are the possible complications of untreated otitis media effusion?
Chronic ear infections, speech and language delays, and developmental delays.
What is the primary difference between acute otitis media and otitis media effusion?
Acute otitis media is characterized by signs of infection, while otitis media effusion is not.
What is the role of ventilation tubes in managing otitis media effusion?
Ventilation tubes can help equalize pressure in the middle ear and prevent fluid buildup.
What is the recommended duration of observation for otitis media effusion before considering intervention?
3 months
What is the primary goal of surgical intervention for otitis media effusion?
To restore normal middle ear function and prevent recurrent effusion.
