Charlottenlund Privathospital

Chronic otitis media

Chronic otitis media

Chronic otitis media can cause ear pain, reduced hearing and pus draining from the ear. Chronic otitis media is very common among children, but adults can also be affected. Regardless of age, it is uncomfortable, and for children it can cause many restless nights and interfere with the ability to lead a normal everyday life for the whole family.


At Charlottenlund Private Hospital, we treat chronic otitis media. If you or your child has symptoms of the disorder, you are welcome to contact us if you have any questions or wish to make an appointment.

What is otitis media?


The ear consists of the outer ear, the middle ear and the inner ear. Inflammation of the middle ear can occur - most often in connection with a cold. It can also occur through the outer ear, e.g. after bathing in a swimming pool.


The most frequent cause of otitis media is a cold, where the narrow passage (also called the Eustachian tube) that connects the middle ear to the throat swells and thus reduces the ability to equalize pressure in the middle ear. The mucous membrane in the middle ear produces fluid, but since the fluid does not have the opportunity to drain away due to the swelling, the fluid remains in the middle ear. The liquid gives the bacteria good growth conditions, which can develop into an inflammatory state.


See Sundhed.dk's animation of how otitis media works.

  • Investigation: How does chronic otitis media occur?

    In the vast majority of cases, the body is able to fight otitis media itself. The pain will typically disappear after 2-4 days, after which you will be well again.


    However, if the otitis media does not go away, or if it keeps coming back, it can develop into chronic otitis media. If you have repeated or permanent otitis media(s), it can wear down the eardrum because it becomes thin and weakened. It can cause a permanent hole in the eardrum that does not heal on its own. Under normal conditions, the eardrum acts as a barrier against the bacteria. They now have free access to the middle ear, which can worsen the situation and create a chronic inflammation in the middle ear.


    With chronic otitis media, the middle ear can be permanently changed, which in the worst case can lead to impaired hearing.

  • Treatment: This is how we treat chronic otitis media

    Chronic otitis media must be treated by an otolaryngologist, as the condition can impair hearing.


    Treatment of chronic otitis media takes place by cleaning the middle ear with suction. It may be that it needs to be supplemented with medical treatment. The doctor assesses whether it is necessary to close the hole in the eardrum. In many cases, this will be a good solution, as it restores the balance in the ear and keeps bacteria out.


    At Charlottenlund Private Hospital, our experienced ENT doctors have treated many patients with chronic otitis media and can also treat you or your child.

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