Otitis media with effusion (OME) and middle ear effusion (MEE) are two different types of ear infections that are caused by fluid buildup in the middle ear. OME is caused by a bacterial or viral infection and is characterized by a buildup of fluid in the middle ear without the presence of bacteria or viruses. Symptoms of OME include hearing loss, fullness or pressure in the ear, and sometimes a feeling of dizziness. Treatment for OME typically involves a course of antibiotics or decongestants.
MEE, on the other hand, is an accumulation of fluid in the middle ear without any infection. This fluid buildup can be caused by allergies, sinus infections, colds, or other environmental factors. Symptoms of MEE may include hearing loss, dizziness, and a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear. Treatment for MEE typically involves anti-allergy medications, decongestants, or nasal sprays.
The main difference between OME and MEE is the cause of the fluid buildup. OME is caused by a bacterial or viral infection, while MEE is caused by environmental factors such as allergies or sinus infections. Additionally, the treatments for the two types of ear infections are also different. OME is typically treated with antibiotics or decongestants, while MEE is typically treated with anti-allergy medications, decongestants, or nasal sprays.