Inflammation of the mucosa lead to swelling and irritation of the ossicles with purulent drainage.

Acute has a sudden onset and can last up to 3 weeks.

Chronic usually follow repeated episodes of acute otitis media, with a long duration, and cause greater injury.

-Conductive hearing is decreased or distorted

-Possible tinnitus

-Headache

-Malaise

-fever

-N&V

-Dizziness

-Reddened, thickened, or bulging eardrum

-Pus

Eardrum perforation can heal on its own if the underlying problems is controlled.

Applying low heat may relieve some pain.

Antibiotics are needed. Educate on completing the full course of drug therapy.

Analgesics are prescribed to treat pain and reduce fever.

Antihistamines and decongestants may be prescribed to to reduce fluid.

If above measures fail, surgical intervention, myringotomy, may be required to drain fluids and relieve pain. A tube may also be placed to allow for continue drainage of fluids.

Educate on safe ways to clean the ears, stress that nothing smaller than the fingertips should enter the ear canal.

-Sneeze with mouth open

-Frequently clean objects that come in contact with the ear

-Avoid environmental conditions that have a rapid change in air pressure

-Wash external ear and canal daily