The most common cause of acute otitis is bacterial or viral infections. Upper respiratory tract infections such as colds and flu can spread to the middle ear and cause inflammation here. The most common bacteria are Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae. Acute otitis usually develops after a cold and, in addition to earache, symptoms such as fever, a feeling of fullness in the ear, hearing loss and restlessness in children may occur.

If left untreated, acute otitis can lead to serious complications. As the infection progresses, problems such as perforation of the eardrum, hearing loss, mastoiditis (inflammation of the mastoid bone) and even meningitis can occur. Acute otitis attacks in children can recur frequently and it is important to take preventive measures.

Acute otitis is diagnosed by ear examination. For bacterial and viral infections, treatment is usually aimed at relieving the symptoms.

Acute otitis is usually a preventable condition. In particular, preventing children from being exposed to cigarette smoke, paying attention to hand hygiene and taking immune-boosting measures such as flu vaccination can reduce the risk of infection. If parents notice that their child has frequent infections, they can consult a specialist physician for a more detailed evaluation.