Otitis media is an infection or inflammation of the middle ear and is one of the most common reasons children visit the doctor. While most common in young children, it can also affect adults. Infections may occur in one or both ears and are often caused by viruses or bacteria following a cold or upper respiratory infection.

In infants and toddlers, symptoms may include pulling at the ear, irritability, crying, trouble sleeping, fever, or ear drainage.
In older children and adults, look for ear pain, pressure or fullness, hearing difficulties, dizziness, nausea, or fluid drainage.

Otitis media typically begins when the eustachian tube—which connects the middle ear to the back of the nose—becomes blocked due to illness, allergies, or congestion.

A doctor will examine the ear with an otoscope to check for redness, fluid, or lack of movement in the eardrum. Additional tests may include an audiogram to check for hearing loss and a tympanogram to measure pressure in the middle ear.

Most infections are treated with antibiotics and medications to relieve pain or reduce fever. Antihistamines or decongestants may be used if allergies or a cold are a contributing factor. Always follow the full course of prescribed medication and return for follow-up if symptoms continue.

If ear infections are frequent or fluid remains long-term, pressure-equalization (PE) tubes may be placed to improve drainage and reduce recurrence. In some cases, removal of enlarged adenoids or tonsils may also be necessary. Prompt diagnosis and treatment help prevent complications such as chronic hearing loss—especially in young children during key developmental stages.