Paediatrics - Otitis Media Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is Otitis Media?
Otitis media is an infection of the middle ear often accompanied by cold and flu symptoms, with the child holding or rubbing their ear.
What is Otitis Media with Effusion / Glue Ear?
Otitis media with effusion (glue ear) is a collection of fluid in the middle ear without signs of acute inflammation. It often follows acute otitis media.
What complications can Otitis Media lead to?
Otitis media can lead to hearing loss and tympanic membrane perforation.
What age group is most affected by Otitis Media?
Otitis media is most common between 3 months and 4 years of age when the eustachian tube is more horizontal.
What are some risk factors for Otitis Media?
Risk factors include under-functioning immune systems (e.g., poor nutrition, dysbiosis), food allergies, environmental irritants, GORD, dental problems, and temporomandibular joint misalignment.
What can parents do to reduce Otitis Media in bottle-fed infants?
Encourage parents to bottle feed in an upright position to reduce eustachian tube compromise.
How can dairy affect Otitis Media?
Dairy can increase mucus production, so reducing or removing dairy may help with Otitis Media.
What home remedies can be used for Otitis Media?
Hot or cold compresses on the ear using a flannel or cloth, and mixing tea tree oil with olive oil to rub around the opening to the ear. Garlic oil can also be used in the same way.
How should garlic oil be prepared for Otitis Media?
Take 50 ml of EVOO and chop 1 garlic clove into it. Let it sit for 24 hours+, then rub it onto the opening of the ear (not into the ear canal).
What allergens can be removed to help with Otitis Media?
Remove allergens like dairy, gluten, and citrus.
How can dental or TMJ issues contribute to Otitis Media?
Dental problems or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) misalignment may contribute to Otitis Media and should be explored as appropriate.
What type of foods should be given to children with Otitis Media?
Provide warm foods to promote warmth in the body and reduce congestion.
Which therapeutics can be used for Otitis Media?
Use the therapeutics mentioned in the Cold and Flu section.
What is the homeopathic dosage for Otitis Media?
The recommended dosage for Otitis Media is 30C every 4 hours, up to 6 doses. If no improvement, seek advice from a homeopath.
What is Aconite used for in Otitis Media?
Aconite is used when the outer ear is hot, red, swollen, and very sensitive to noise, often from cold wind exposure.
What symptoms does Belladonna treat in Otitis Media?
Belladonna treats throbbing or pulsating pain in the middle and external ear with accompanying high fever.
What is Chamomilla used for in Otitis Media?
Chamomilla is used for acutely painful earache from heat exposure, wind exposure, or emotional upset, with one cheek red and the other pale.
What is Merc. sol used for in Otitis Media?
Merc. sol is used for earache at night, typically of the right ear, with thick yellow-green offensive discharge. The child feels better with a cold compress.
What is Pulsatilla used for in Otitis Media?
Pulsatilla is used when every cold develops into an earache, with a fullness or bursting sensation. The child feels better in open air and needs constant affection.
What is Silica used for in Otitis Media?
Silica is the main remedy for constant catarrh and ‘glue ear’, with thick and purulent discharge. The child bores their finger in their ear.
