Otitis media

Otitis media is inflammation of the middle ear, the air-filled space behind the eardrum. It often involves fluid accumulation and may result from infection.

Eustachian tube: A passage connecting the middle ear to the upper throat that equalizes pressure and allows fluid drainage. Impaired opening can trap fluid behind the eardrum and encourage middle-ear inflammation.
Ear: The sensory organ that detects sound and contributes to balance. Otitis media affects one compartment of this larger organ.
Antibiotic: A medicine that kills bacteria or inhibits their growth. Antibiotics may be used for selected acute cases, but not for every episode.
Otitis externa: Inflammation of the external ear canal, often caused by infection or irritation. Unlike otitis media, it affects the canal outside the eardrum.
Middle ear effusion: Fluid in the middle ear, with or without signs of acute infection. Effusion is a defining feature of many cases and can persist after acute symptoms resolve.
Middle ear: The air-filled cavity between the eardrum and inner ear, containing the auditory ossicles. This is the anatomical space where otitis media develops.
Watchful waiting: A planned period of observation before treatment, with reassessment if symptoms persist or worsen. Many uncomplicated acute cases improve without immediate antibiotics.
Acute otitis media: A rapid-onset middle-ear infection marked by fluid and acute signs of inflammation. The acute infectious form contrasts with persistent effusion lacking acute infection.
Tympanic membrane: A thin membrane separating the external ear canal from the middle ear. Inflammation and pressure behind it can make the membrane bulge or reduce its movement.
Otalgia: Pain located in or around the ear, arising from ear disease or referred sources. Ear pain is a frequent symptom, but it alone does not establish otitis media.

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