Fluid behind the eardrum is called serous otitis media. This fluid is drawn out of blood vessels in the lining of the inner ear, and can only drain if the Eustachian tube is open. In more severe cases of barotrauma, the middle ear can fill with clear fluid as the body tries to equalize the pressure on both sides of the eardrum. Your ear will feel stuffed and you may feel as if you need to "pop" it. This can cause pain and can muffle sounds. The pressure change can create a differential between the outer and middle ear that pushes the eardrum inward. Barotrauma of the ear also can happen when scuba divers descend. On an airplane, barotrauma to the ear – also called aero-otitis or barotitis – can happen as the plane descends for landing. Ear barotrauma can occur when these tubes become blocked or partially blocked. These bubbles are constantly moving into the middle ear, where they balance the ear's inner pressure. This is a bubble of air being moved through the Eustachian tube. When you swallow, you may notice a small click in your ears. This connects your ear with the back of your mouth. The only connection between your middle ear and the "outside world" is a thin canal called the Eustachian tube. Your middle ear includes the eardrum and the space behind it. Generalized barotraumas, also called decompression sickness, affects the entire body. Last updated on Jan 12, 2022.īarotrauma refers to injuries caused by increased air or water pressure, such as during airplane flights or scuba diving. If your child is over 12 months old, avoiding the use of a pacifier will decrease the risk of getting ear infections.Medically reviewed by. How can I prevent fluid accumulation in my ears or the ears of my children?Īvoiding cigarette smoke or any known allergens may help prevent future fluid accumulation and ear infections, as will washing your hands and your child’s toys frequently. In the majority of cases, it is best to wait for the fluid to clear up on its own. In stubborn cases, it may be necessary to place tubes in the ears, but this is relatively rare. If there is an infection, you may need antibiotics. Your ENT will perform additional tests to rule out any underlying condition and to determine the best treatment for the persistent fluid in your ears. You are welcome to contact South Florida ENT Associates for an appointment. If it persists for more than six weeks, it is best to contact an ENT. In most cases, fluid in the ears will resolve on its own within a few weeks, requiring no medical treatment. ENTs are highly trained medical specialists and will be familiar with more subtle signs of fluid in the ears. If you suspect that your child may have fluid in their ears, schedule an appointment with an ENT (ear, nose, and throat doctor). This means that it often goes undiagnosed. Small children may not be able to express their symptoms, and unless they experience pain, it may be more difficult to detect. Feeling like you need to “pop” your ears but being unable toĭiagnosing fluid in the ears in children can be more challenging.Feeling like your ears are full or plugged.
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