What are the types of otitis media in children?

Patient's question:

Patient is male, 4 years old, pediatric otitis media

Doctor's answer:

1. Otitis media with effusion, also known as serous otitis media or non-purulent otitis media, is characterized by ear fullness and hearing loss. It is often associated with a history of colds. During the acute phase, mild ear pain may occur. Serous otitis media is a common cause of deafness in children, and strengthening prevention efforts for this condition is crucial for preventing and treating deafness in children. The main measure is to exercise regularly and enhance the body's resistance. In treatment, in addition to systemic use of antibacterial and antiviral drugs, local nasal drops are particularly important. Common nasal drops include 1% ephedrine solution or furacilin ephedrine nasal drops.
　　2. Acute purulent otitis media is characterized by fever, ear pain, and purulent discharge from the ear; its treatment principles can be found on the Acute Purulent Otitis Media page.
　　3. Chronic purulent otitis media: This is mostly simple otitis media, caused by recurrent acute otitis media or water entering the ear. The key to prevention is to prevent colds and avoid dirty water entering the ear. Additionally, some children may have congenital cholesteatoma, which requires surgical treatment.