Catarrhal otitis media, i.e., secretory otitis media, is mostly caused by upper respiratory tract infections, but can also be associated with Eustachian tube dysfunction, metaplasia, localized infection of the middle ear and other etiological factors. Symptoms come and go, and should be treated conservatively, i.e., non-surgical treatment for 3 months, and then strictly grasp the indications for surgery to target the cause of the disease as appropriate.
When acute symptoms flare up, sensitive antibiotics such as penicillin can be chosen for anti-infection treatment, and attention should be paid to keeping the nasal cavity open, using ephedrine solution and antibiotic nasal drops containing hormones, and oral dexamethasone treatment can also be assisted in order to alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms.
For patients with recurrent or prolonged otitis media, if there is fluid in the middle ear that is not easily discharged, surgical treatments such as tympanic membrane placement and balloon dilatation of the Eustachian tube can be performed; and active treatment of nasal cavity and nasopharyngeal diseases, such as adenoidectomy, nasal polypectomy, etc., can be performed to improve the symptoms.
If recurrent otitis media is found, it is recommended to consult a doctor in time, strictly follow the indications for surgery, and follow the doctor’s instructions to treat the cause and symptoms.