Middle ear infection
Also called: otitis media
An infection of the air-filled space behind the eardrum, also known as the middle ear.
- Treatable by a medical professional
- Requires a medical diagnosis
- Lab tests or imaging rarely required
- Short-term: resolves within days to weeks
A bacterium or virus usually causes otitis media. The infection usually starts with a cold, flu or allergy that causes stuffiness and swelling inside the nose, throat and ears. Some people are more likely to have ear infections.
Very common: More than 3 million US cases per year
Consult a doctor for medical advice
Sources: Mayo Clinic and others. Learn more
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