Otitis is any of several disorders involving infection and/or inflammation of the internal or external ear.
Alternative Names
Ear infection; Infection - ear
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Otitis (ear infection or inflammation) can affect the internal ear or the external ear. Otitis is classified according to whether it occurs suddenly (acute) or over a long period(chronic). Specific types of ear infection include:
Otitis externa - acuteOtitis externa - chronicOtitis externa - malignantOtitis media - acuteOtitis media -chronicOtitis media - with effusion
Signs and tests
Physical examination of the ears, with or without an instrument ( otoscope ), may show signs typical of otitis. For example, otitis externa often shows a red, painful external ear. Otitis media may cause redness or swelling of the eardrum.
Treatment
Treatment usually includes antibiotics or other antimicrobials, depending on the suspected cause of the infection.
Expectations (prognosis)
Most types of ear infection respond readily to treatment.
Complications
See the specific types of otitis.
Calling your health care provider
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of otitis are present.
Prevention
See the specific types of otitis.