Does otitis media affect the brain?

Although most cases of otitis media go away without any problems, repeated infections that go untreated for a long time can lead to complications and cause the infection to spread outside the ear. Can the infection spread to the brain?

Does otitis media affect the brain?

Although rare, repeated or untreated otitis media can lead to serious complications that affect the brain or the membranes surrounding it.

Complications of otitis media on the brain include:

Brain abscess: This is a collection of pus (pus) inside the brain tissue, and occurs as a result of bacteria spreading from the middle ear to the brain.

Meningitis: This is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, and acute otitis media is the most common cause, especially in infants and young children.

Symptoms that indicate damage to the brain or the membranes surrounding it due to untreated otitis media include:

Severe headache that does not respond to pain relievers, or is concentrated in a specific place in the head.

Changes in mental status, confusion, or nervousness.

Muscle weakness or paralysis on one side of the body.

Stuttering.

Fever.

Nausea and vomiting.

Stiff neck.

Seizures.

Vision changes, such as blurred vision, double vision, or sensitivity to light.

A rash that doesn’t go away when you press on it with a glass (in the case of meningitis).

Important note:

These symptoms may appear suddenly or gradually, and if any of them appear, you should go to the emergency room immediately, as both brain abscess and meningitis are serious conditions that can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.

Complications of otitis media

Recurrent, untreated otitis media can cause other complications, including:

Hearing loss: Repeated infections can damage the inner tissues of the ear and cause long-term hearing problems. Hearing loss may be temporary or permanent.

Speech and language delays in children: Hearing plays an important role in the acquisition of speech and language skills in children, and hearing loss resulting from otitis media can delay the development of these skills in a child, which may affect his or her ability to interact.

Eardrum rupture: 5-10% of children with otitis media may develop minor ruptures in their eardrums. Although they may heal on their own with treatment of the infection, they may require surgery in severe cases.

Prevention of otitis media

To protect yourself and your child from complications of otitis media, follow these tips:

Treatment of otitis media: Do not ignore any symptoms that indicate otitis media, and consult a doctor to get the appropriate treatment.

Complete treatment as directed: Follow your doctor's instructions regarding the duration of treatment and doses of medications, even if you feel better in symptoms.

Get vaccinated: Some vaccinations, such as the flu and pneumococcal vaccines, help reduce the risk of otitis media.

Article summary

Repeated or untreated otitis media can lead to serious complications affecting the brain, including brain abscess and meningitis, both of which are emergencies that need to be treated as soon as possible.