Symptoms of Chronic Otitis Media

Chronic otitis media is a relatively common condition. Many individuals remain unaware that they have developed chronic otitis media. So, what are the clinical manifestations of chronic otitis media?

Symptoms of Chronic Otitis Media

Pain: Recurrent ear pain may occur, often associated with repeated acute exacerbations of chronic otitis media. Recurrent mucoid or purulent discharge: Primarily secreted by the mucosa of the middle ear cavity. Tympanic membrane perforation: Frequently observed in patients with chronic otitis media. Hearing loss: Patients commonly experience sensorineural or mixed hearing loss to varying degrees. Tinnitus: Some patients may report a sensation of ear fullness or blockage, and even persistent tinnitus.

The treatment principles for chronic otitis media include eliminating underlying causes, controlling infection, identifying and addressing pathological foci, ensuring adequate drainage, and restoring hearing function as much as possible. Otorrhea (ear discharge) is the predominant symptom of chronic otitis media and may be mucoid, mucopurulent, or purely purulent. Non-dangerous discharge is typically thin and odorless. Although dangerous types of otorrhea are less common, they tend to be thick, predominantly purulent, and accompanied by a foul odor.

Patients should maintain regular sleep-wake schedules and healthy sleep habits—ensuring sufficient rest and avoiding late-night activities. Additionally, maintaining emotional well-being and avoiding anger or stress is important. Internal “heat” (a traditional Chinese medicine concept referring to inflammatory or hyperactive physiological states) may exacerbate chronic otitis media; therefore, patients should take steps to prevent excessive internal heat—for example, by drinking plenty of warm water and consuming foods with heat-clearing and fire-purging properties as adjunctive therapy. We hope this information proves helpful to you.