Otitis

The ear consists of 3 parts.

• The outer ear includes the ear canal and the auricle, which is the skin flap on the side of the head.
• The middle ear contains the 3 small bones for hearing, as well as the air-filled space behind the eardrum.
• The inner ear consists of the cochlea, a bone used for hearing, and the labyrinth, which is involved in balance.

Any part of the ear can be inflamed, or irritated. Often the cause is an infection by a virus, bacterium, or fungus.

Symptoms of otitis vary, depending on the part of the ear involved and the cause of the otitis. Specific information can be found under these topics:

• acute otitis media
• chronic otitis externa
• chronic otitis media
• infectious myringitis
• labyrinthitis
• necrotizing external otitis
• swimmer's ear

Causes and risks vary, depending on the part of the ear involved and the cause of the otitis. Specific information can be found under the types of otitis listed above.

Some cases of otitis can be prevented, while others cannot. Specific information can be found under the types of otitis listed above.

Diagnosis of otitis begins with a medical history and physical exam. More information can be found under the types of otitis listed above.

More information can be found under the types of otitis listed above.

Treatment varies, depending on the part of the ear involved and the cause. More information can be found under the types of otitis listed above.

Side effects vary, depending on the treatment. More information can be found under the types of otitis listed above.

More information can be found under the types of otitis listed above.

Some types of otitis clear up and need no further monitoring. Others may require long-term monitoring. More information can be found under the types of otitis listed above. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare professional.