Otitis

When ear pain requires professional attention

Otitis is an inflammation of the ear and one of the most common causes of earache in both children and adults. Depending on the location, it can range from mild to requiring immediate medical intervention. A proper diagnosis by an ENT specialist is key to rapid relief and the prevention of complications.

Congestion
Snoring
Headache
Discharge
Shortness of Breath
Nosebleed
Definition & Types

What is Otitis?

Otitis is an inflammation of the ear and is classified into three main types based on its location:

1. Otitis Externa

Inflammation of the outer ear canal. It is often associated with moisture (“swimmer’s ear”), trauma from cotton swabs, or bacterial and fungal infections.

2. Otitis Media

Inflammation behind the eardrum, usually occurring as a complication following a viral infection or a cold. It is particularly common in children but also occurs in adults.

3. Otitis with Effusion (Serous)

Fluid collection in the middle ear without intense pain or fever. The primary symptoms are hearing loss and a feeling of “fullness” or blockage in the ear.

Causes & Risk Factors
1
Infections & Anatomy
Upper respiratory infections, eustachian tube dysfunction, or enlarged adenoids (in children).
2
External Factors
Trapped water (sea/pool), smoking, and allergic rhinitis.
3
Improper Habits
Misuse of cotton swabs causing trauma to the external auditory canal.
Clinical Presentation

What are the symptoms?

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Severe ear pain (sharp or pulsating)
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Hearing loss or a feeling of “fullness”
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Fluid or pus discharge (otorrhea)
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Fever and general malaise
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Dizziness, instability, or vertigo
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Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ear)
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In Children: Restlessness, excessive crying or irritability
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In Children: Constant pulling or rubbing of the ear

Evaluation & Guidance

Diagnosis & ENT Consultation

DIAGNOSIS & EXAMINATION

How is it diagnosed?

The diagnostic process is quick and painless, focusing on clinical findings:

  • 1. Otoscopy: Visual inspection of the ear canal and eardrum.
  • 2. Tympanometry: Assessment of middle ear pressure and fluid.
  • 3. Audiological Testing: Hearing evaluation for chronic cases.
  • 4. Clinical Exam: Nasal and nasopharyngeal evaluation.
WHEN TO SEEK HELP

Indications for an ENT visit

Immediate medical evaluation is recommended if:

  • • Ear pain persists for more than 24–48 hours
  • • Fever, dizziness, vertigo, or instability occurs
  • • Fluid or pus discharge is observed from the ear
  • • Hearing loss persists or infections are recurrent
  • • Infants or young children show signs of severe distress
TREATMENT OPTIONS

How is it treated?

EXTERNAL & MIDDLE OTITIS

External Otitis

  • → Topical drops & canal cleaning
  • → Strict avoidance of water

Acute Middle Otitis

  • → Analgesics & Antipyretics
  • → Antibiotics (when indicated)
  • → Nasal decongestant therapy
SEROUS OTITIS & INTERVENTION

Otitis with Effusion

Requires monitoring and nasal therapy. If the fluid persists:

  • → Fluid drainage (myringotomy)
  • → Placement of ventilation tubes
ATTENTION
The arbitrary use of antibiotics without medical guidance is not recommended.

Possible Complications (if left untreated)
  • • Progression to chronic otitis
  • • Risk of permanent hearing loss
  • • Spontaneous eardrum perforation
  • • Mastoiditis (a rare but serious complication)

 

ENT Clinic – 16 Kapetan Chrona St., Neo Psychiko


Book an Appointment Now

+30 6931 045 380
contact@festas-orl.gr
16 Kapetan Chrona St.