Otitis Media

Ear Infections

Some children in your class may receive hearing support services even though they are not hard of hearing. These children do not wear hearing aids but they may struggle in school more than a hard of hearing or deaf child. These children suffer from chronic otitis media.

What is it?
Otitis Media is an infection or inflammation in the middle ear. This is most often caused by colds or allergies. Childen and adults are both susceptible to otitis media, however more children than adults are affected. One reason is because children have a less developed immune system and do not fight off infections as well. Another major reason is the eustacian tube. This small tube connects the upper part of the throat to the middle ear. In a child this tube is shorter and straighter than in an adult. This tube opens to allow air inbto the middle ear. If it becomes swollen or blocked by mucus from a cold, air cannot get into the middle ear and fluid can be pulled from the tissues lining the middle ear and accumulate. As fluid builds up pain begins to occur. If left untreated the pressure can cause a tear in the eardrum releasing fluid into the outer ear.

Effects
Otitis Media can cause serious problems if left untreated. The infection can spread to the brain or other parts of the head. Otitis media causes a temporary hearing loss but if left untreated it can become permanent.

Hearing loss from chronic otitis media can affect a child's speech and language development at critical stages. Children who have early problems with otitis media are more likely to have problems because they do not hear the same from day to day. During a period of infection hearing is suppressed and softer sounds may not be heard so a child may only hear "oo" instead of "shoe."

Treatment
Some doctors prescribe antibiotics but many of the bacterial forms that cause otitis media have become resistant to drugs.

In some cases where the fluid does not drain from the ears, tubes will be inserted. A small cut is made in the eardrum and the tube is inserted. This allows air into the middle ear keeping the air pressure equal. Tubes last 6-12 months before falling out on their own. If the child has more infections the doctor may put another one in . Removing adenoids in children over 4 years of age has been shown to reduce occurrences

Classroom Helps

Seat the child near the front of the room, with good ear towards the speaker, so they can hear better.

Ask nurse for frequent checks

Call parents any time you suspect anything

Call nurse if you see or smell drainage in the ear

Use of sound field system may help