<s>[INST] What is acute otitis media? [/INST] Acute Otitis Media (AOM) is an infection in one or both ears. An “acute” ear infection is a short-term and painful ear infection that may come on quickly. This is in contrast to a Chronic Ear Infection that may last a longer time, come and go, and lead to permanent hearing damage.

Acute otitis media (AOM) is a swelling and infection of the middle ear. "Otitis" means ear and "media" means middle. The middle ear is located just behind the eardrum. The eustachian tube in the middle ear drains fluid away from the middle ear and connects to the back of the nose and throat.
When fluid builds up in the eustachian tube, it can lead to an increase in pressure on the eardrum, which results in pain. The ear can become infected with bacteria (germs), which can grow in the trapped fluid behind the eardrum.
Ear infections are common in infants and children because the eustachian tubes are more narrow and horizontal and can become easily clogged. Ear infections can be more common in children who also have a cold or flu due to a virus. Symptoms of an ear infection may begin during the 3rd to 7th day of a viral infection. Children with an ear infection usually also have a runny nose and nasal congestion.

Mild hearing loss may occur, but it is usually temporary. However, if hearing loss lasts an extended period of time, it may cause problems with speech, language and learning. Source: DRUGS.COM. Link: https://www.drugs.com/article/middle-ear-infections-children.html. Field: Otolaryngology. Disease: Ear Infection </s>