Treatment principles and recommendations for secretory otitis media.

Describes the sensation of ear blockage and discomfort and inquires about corresponding treatment methods.

A nine-month-old baby was found to have a thick discharge in the ear after about 10 days. Initially, the doctor diagnosed it as earwax, but later discovered an increase in earwax, especially in the left ear. After a detailed examination at another hospital, the diagnosis was otitis media, and ear cleaning and otoscopy were performed. The doctor suggested that it might be caused by improper breastfeeding position and recommended hospitalization. Treatment included intravenous azithromycin and ofloxacin, and otoscopy showed fluid accumulation. The fluid did not resolve, and surgery was required. After discharge, the baby took azithromycin orally for 3 days and ear drops three times a day. During follow-up, the doctor found a left ear deformity that might affect hearing. There is now concern about whether the baby’s hearing has been affected.

The child frequently has runny nose and crusts, with a diagnosis of tonsillar hypertrophy and now accompanied by secretory otitis media. The doctor suggests surgery, but the parents are concerned about the child’s age.

How should a 10-year-old child with secretory otitis media be treated?

Secretory otitis media is usually caused by a blocked eustachian tube, which may be due to nose problems leading to the blockage of the eustachian tube, causing poor ventilation and the inability to expel secretions.