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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Otitis Media ?

My doctor diagnosed otitis media in my friend. What Causes Otitis Media?
posted on Tue, 20 Dec 2011
Twitter Tue, 20 Dec 2011 Answered on
Twitter Mon, 26 Mar 2012 Last reviewed on
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ENT Specialist,  's  Response
Welcome to Healthcare magic.
Blockage of the eustachian tube during a cold, allergy, or upper respiratory infection and the presence of bacteria or viruses lead to the accumulation of fluid (a build-up of pus and mucus) behind the eardrum. This is the infection called acute otitis media. The build up of pressurized pus in the middle ear causes earache, swelling, and redness. Since the eardrum cannot vibrate properly, deafness occurs.
If pressure build-up is too greate, sometimes the eardrum ruptures, and pus drains out. But more commonly, the pus and mucus remain in the middle ear due to the swollen and inflamed eustachian tube.
Wishing your friend a speedy recovery.
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What Causes Otitis Media ?

Welcome to Healthcare magic. Blockage of the eustachian tube during a cold, allergy, or upper respiratory infection and the presence of bacteria or viruses lead to the accumulation of fluid (a build-up of pus and mucus) behind the eardrum. This is the infection called acute otitis media. The build up of pressurized pus in the middle ear causes earache, swelling, and redness. Since the eardrum cannot vibrate properly, deafness occurs. If pressure build-up is too greate, sometimes the eardrum ruptures, and pus drains out. But more commonly, the pus and mucus remain in the middle ear due to the swollen and inflamed eustachian tube. Wishing your friend a speedy recovery.