Serous Otitis Media

When an ear feels plugged or has a sensation of fluid without obvious pain, it may be serous otitis media. It is the buildup of fluid in the middle ear, behind the eardrum, without an active infection with pus.

What is usually noticed:

• A feeling of a plugged or full ear
• Reduced hearing
• In children, lack of attention to sounds or turning up the volume

Why it happens: it is often related to ventilation problems of the Eustachian tube, which connects the ear with the nose and throat.

The right professional: the otolaryngologist is the one who examines the middle ear and hearing. If the feeling of a plugged ear persists or affects how you hear, it is worth having it checked by this specialist to receive clear guidance.