Otitis Media Treatment In Mumbai
Secretory otitis media
Could that ear fullness be fluid buildup—not infection? Secretory otitis media, also known as otitis media with effusion, affects over 12% of Indian children under 10, especially during the monsoon and winter months (Indian ENT Journal, 2025). It’s a silent condition—no fever, no pain—just hearing loss and a sensation of pressure. Secretory Otitis Media is a common ear condition, especially in children. It happens when thick fluid collects behind the eardrum in the middle ear. If left untreated, it can lead to delayed speech in kids and repeated infections. For accurate diagnosis and care, trust an experienced ear doctor in Mumbai like Dr. Shama S Kovale at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, one of the Top ENT specialists in Mumbai, offering precise and gentle care.
How does fluid collect behind the eardrum
Unlike typical ear infections, secretory otitis media doesn’t cause pain. It occurs when the Eustachian tube (which equalizes pressure between the middle ear and nose) becomes blocked, usually due to allergies, cold, sinusitis, or adenoid hypertrophy. As air gets trapped and absorbed, negative pressure pulls fluid or cold into the middle ear, which can thicken and persist for weeks.This fluid is not pus — it’s like “glue,” sticky and thick.
What symptoms should you look out for?
- Muffled hearing in one or both ears
- Ear fullness or a popping sensation
- Delayed language in children
- Behavioral changes due to hearing difficulty
- Poor school performance
- Balance issues in younger kids
Otitis Media Treatment In Mumbai: How it’s diagnosed and confirmed
ENT specialists use:
✔️ Otoscopy – to visualize eardrum retraction and fluid
✔️ Tympanometry – to measure the pressures of the middle ear.
✔️ Audiometry – to assess hearing loss
✔️ Nasal endoscopy – to evaluate adenoids if chronic
These painless tests are vital before any decision regarding medication or surgery.
What treatment options are available today?
Most cases resolve within 12 weeks, but chronic ones may need:
- Nasal steroids or antihistamines for allergy-related cases
- Treating a sinus infection, sinusitis, or cold
- Myringotomy with grommet insertion (ear tubes) for persistent fluid
- Adenoidectomy if enlarged adenoids are the culprit
- These procedures are safe, quick, and done under brief general anesthesia.
Why parents must watch for silent ear fluid in kids
Because there’s no visible pain or discharge, many parents miss the signs. But studies show even 25 dB hearing loss can impact speech clarity, memory, and social development. Annual ENT checks are crucial for children under 10, especially if snoring or recurrent cold exists.
What recovery looks like post-grommet insertion
- Children can usually go home the same day
- Hearing improves within 24–48 hours
- Tubes fall off naturally in 6–12 months
- Regular swimming is permitted with earplugs
With timely care, children regain full hearing, speech improves, and infections are reduced drastically.
Secretory Otitis Media is not an ear infection with pus — it is a fluid build-up behind the eardrum. Watch for signs of hearing loss in children and consult an ENT early to protect speech and learning.
Dr. Shama S Kovale – Otitis Media Specialist in Mumbai
- 23+ years of ENT surgical experience
- Fellowship in Voice & Swallowing Disorders – UC Davis, USA
- Cochlear Implant Trained – Hinduja Hospital
- Regular faculty at ENT conferences and award-winning specialist
- Trusted for pediatric and adult ear procedures at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital
Patient Experience – Hear What They Say
“She wasn’t talking much, and her teacher noticed something off. Dr. Kovale diagnosed fluid in both ears. Post-surgery, her words are clear and she’s now participating more in class.”
– Vedika N., 4 years
“I thought it was wax. Turns out it was thick fluid behind the eardrum. Dr. Shama explained everything calmly and drained it. No pain, no fuss—just better hearing.”
– Ramesh G., 38
“Zoya had five infections in a year. Dr. Kovale inserted tiny tubes. No more antibiotics, and she finally sleeps peacefully.”
– Zoya P., 8
FAQs
Is secretory otitis media the same as an ear infection?
No. It’s fluid without infection—no fever or pain. But it still needs evaluation.
Can adults get it too?
Yes, especially after colds, sinus infections, or allergies.
Is surgery always required?
No, many resolve on their own. Grommets are used only if fluid persists beyond 3 months.
Are ear tubes permanent?
No—they usually fall out naturally within 6 to 12 months.
Who is the best doctor to consult in Mumbai?
For expert and accurate care, visit Dr. Shama S Kovale, one of the most trusted ENT specialists in Mumbai, at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital.
Secretory otitis media may be silent, but its effects on hearing and child development are real. Don’t wait for pain—get clarity with a detailed ear evaluation. Schedule your ear check-up with Dr. Shama S Kovale, a renowned ear doctor in Mumbai, at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, where advanced ENT care meets compassionate expertise.
To visit Dr. Shama S Kovale, click here.
