What should I do about fluid buildup in the ear?

Under normal circumstances, fluid accumulation in the ear may be caused by temporary eustachian tube dysfunction, unique anatomical features of the eustachian tube in infants and young children, secretory otitis media, acute suppurative otitis media, or adenoid hypertrophy. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and follow a doctor's guidance for improvement through general management, medication, or other treatments. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Temporary Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: Colds or sudden changes in air pressure during flights can easily lead to poor eustachian tube ventilation, resulting in negative pressure in the middle ear cavity and subsequent fluid accumulation, often accompanied by a sensation of ear fullness. The Valsalva maneuver (pinching the nose and gently blowing) can help—this forces airflow into the ear canal. Perform this 2–3 times daily. Avoid flying during a cold to minimize pressure-related irritation.

2. Unique Eustachian Tube Anatomy in Infants and Young Children: In young children, the eustachian tube is shorter, more horizontal, and wider, making it easier for nasal secretions to flow backward into the middle ear and cause fluid buildup, often associated with nasal congestion. During feeding, keep the baby in a semi-upright position to prevent milk aspiration while lying flat. Use saline nasal drops followed by gentle massage of the nasal wings to clear nasal secretions promptly and prevent backflow.

3. Secretory Otitis Media: Prolonged blockage of the eustachian tube leads to fluid accumulation in the middle ear, typically serous in nature, accompanied by mild hearing loss and tinnitus. Patients should take medications such as enteric-coated capsules of eucalyptus oil, limonene, and pinene, mometasone furoate nasal spray, or cefaclor granules as prescribed, to promote fluid drainage and reduce inflammation.

4. Acute Suppurative Otitis Media: Bacterial infection causes middle ear inflammation, leading to purulent fluid accumulation, severe ear pain, and fever. Patients should take medications such as amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium tablets, ofloxacin ear drops, or cefixime dispersible tablets as directed by a physician. If the eardrum perforates, gently wipe away pus from the external auditory canal using sterile cotton swabs.

5. Adenoid Hypertrophy: Enlarged adenoids can obstruct the opening of the eustachian tube, causing recurrent fluid accumulation, often accompanied by nasal obstruction and mouth breathing. When drug treatment proves ineffective, surgical removal of the adenoids (adenoidectomy) may be necessary. Removing the overgrown tissue helps restore eustachian tube function and prevents recurrence of fluid buildup.

In daily life, avoid forceful nose-blowing to prevent nasal secretions from being forced into the middle ear. Stay warm to prevent colds, maintain clear nasal passages, and wear waterproof earplugs when swimming to reduce the risk of ear canal infections and fluid accumulation.