Summer’s Here—Beware of This Non-Pus-Filled Ear Infection!

Summer is here in full swing!
School breaks are about to begin!
But as we sweat and play, a seasonal troublemaker lurks:
Secretory Otitis Media (SOM).
Q1: What Is Secretory Otitis Media?
Secretory otitis media (SOM) is a non-suppurative inflammation (no pus) in the middle ear (behind the eardrum), caused by viral/bacterial infections. Key features include fluid buildup, intact eardrum, and hearing loss. It’s also called "glue ear".
What sets it apart? No ear discharge, making symptoms subtle. Preschoolers, the most vulnerable group, often show no obvious signs or can’t articulate discomfort, leading to delayed diagnosis.
Q2: How Can Parents Spot SOM in Kids?
If your child can express discomfort, watch for:
“My ear hurts”: Pain often worsens at night, eases by morning.
“Ears feel stuffy” or “I hear buzzing/crackling”: Tinnitus or ear fullness.
“My voice sounds louder”: Autophony (hearing one’s own voice loudly).
“Crunchy noises when I eat”: Clicking sounds during swallowing.
For younger kids, watch for:
Frequent ear-tugging, irritability, or restless sleep (signs of pain/fullness).
Ignoring calls, turning up TV volume, or poor focus (hearing loss).

Q3: How to Prevent Secretory Otitis Media?

Root Cause: Eustachian Tube Blockage

The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the throat, balancing air pressure. Blockages (like a deflated balloon) create negative pressure, causing fluid buildup.
Prevention Tips:
 Avoid Colds
Summer AC shifts cause nasal congestion → Eustachian blockages.
Keep AC at 25–26°C, avoid direct drafts, and boost immunity.
Manage Allergic Rhinitis
Nasal inflammation → swollen Eustachian tubes.
Clean AC filters, ensure airflow, and reduce allergens.
 Treat Nasopharyngeal Issues
Adenoid hypertrophy (common in kids), sinusitis, or nasal polyps need prompt treatment.

Summer-Specific Risk: Swimming

Pool water bacteria/viruses can invade the ear or enter via nasal呛水 (water choking), triggering SOM.
Prevention Tips:
Choose clean, well-maintained pools.
Use waterproof earplugs and swim caps.
Avoid water嬉戏 (rough play) to prevent choking.
Rinse ears/nose with clean water post-swim.
Untreated SOM can lead to permanent damage: eardrum changes, hearing loss, or complications. If your child shows ear pain, hearing issues, or tinnitus, seek immediate medical care.
Stay vigilant—summer fun shouldn’t cost their hearing!