Otitis media with effusion
Alternative Names
OME; Secretory otitis media; Serous otitis media; Silent otitis media; Silent ear infection; Glue earSymptoms
The hallmark of OME is the lack of obvious symptoms in those who most commonly have the condition.
Older children and adults often complain of muffled hearing or a sense of fullness in the ear. Younger children may turn up the television volume.
Exams and Tests
Most often OME is diagnosed when someone examines the ear for another reason, such as a well-child physical.
A general ear examination may show dullness, air bubbles, fluid behind the eardrum, or reduced movement of the eardrum.
A test called tympanometry can is a more accurate tool for diagnosing OME. The results of the test can help tell the amount and thickness of the fluid present.
An acoustic otoscope or reflectometer is a more portable device that accurately detects the presence of fluid in the middle ear.
An audiometer or some other type of formal hearing test may be help decide what treatment is needed.
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