Symptoms
The symptoms of otitis in children can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms of AOM include ear pain, fever, decreased hearing, tugging at the ear, and discharge from the ear. Children with OME may have no symptoms, or may experience temporary hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), and a feeling of fullness in the affected ear.
Causes
The causes of otitis in children can be multifactorial, but some of the most common causes include a cold or flu, an upper respiratory infection, exposure to second-hand smoke, and a weakened immune system. Otitis can also be caused by the insertion of foreign objects into the ear, like a cotton swab or fingernail.