Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media (CSOM) in Children: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Introduction to CSOM in Children

Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media, or CSOM in children, is a long-lasting ear infection. It causes a hole in the eardrum and ongoing ear discharge. This condition is common in kids, especially in areas with limited healthcare. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), CSOM is a leading cause of hearing loss in children worldwide. Early treatment is important. If left untreated, CSOM can affect hearing and learning. In this blog, we will explain the signs of CSOM, its causes, diagnosis, and treatment for CSOM in children. We will also share tips for preventing ear infections in children.

Symptoms of CSOM in Children

CSOM in children often shows clear signs. However, some symptoms may be mild at first. Watch for these common signs of CSOM:

Ongoing or repeated ear discharge (pus or fluid)

Bad smell from the ear

Hearing loss in one or both ears

Ear pain or discomfort

Itching in the ear

Fever (sometimes)

Trouble paying attention or learning

Sometimes, children may not complain of pain. Instead, you may notice them turning up the TV volume or not responding to sounds. Therefore, it is important to watch for any changes in your child’s hearing or behavior.

Causes and Risk Factors

CSOM in children usually starts after an acute ear infection. When the infection does not heal, it can lead to a hole in the eardrum. This allows bacteria to enter and cause ongoing infection. Several factors can increase the risk of chronic ear infection in kids:

Frequent colds or upper respiratory infections

Poor hygiene or crowded living conditions

Exposure to tobacco smoke

Swimming in dirty water

Allergies

Family history of ear infections

Malnutrition or weak immune system

In some regions, CSOM in children is more common due to limited access to medical care. For example, children in rural or low-income areas may face higher risks.

Diagnosis of CSOM in Children

Doctors diagnose CSOM in children by checking the ear with a special tool called an otoscope. This tool helps them see if there is a hole in the eardrum or pus in the ear canal. Sometimes, they may take a sample of the ear discharge to find out which bacteria are causing the infection. In addition, hearing tests can check if your child has hearing loss. Early diagnosis helps prevent long-term problems. If you notice signs of CSOM, visit a doctor as soon as possible.

Treatment Options

Treatment for CSOM in children aims to stop the infection and heal the ear. Doctors may suggest:

Ear drops with antibiotics to fight bacteria

Cleaning the ear by a healthcare provider

Oral antibiotics if the infection is severe

Hearing tests to check for hearing loss

Surgery (such as tympanoplasty) if the hole in the eardrum does not heal

It is important to follow the doctor’s advice and finish all medicines. Do not put anything in your child’s ear unless told by a doctor. With proper care, most children recover well.

Prevention and Home Care Tips

There are steps you can take to help prevent CSOM in children and reduce the risk of chronic ear infection in kids:

Keep your child’s ears dry and clean

Avoid letting dirty water enter the ears

Teach children to wash their hands often

Keep your home smoke-free

Make sure your child gets all recommended vaccines

Treat colds and allergies early

See a doctor if your child has ear pain or discharge

At home, gently wipe away any discharge from the outer ear with a clean cloth. However, do not use cotton swabs or insert anything into the ear canal. This can make the infection worse.

When to See a Doctor

It is important to seek medical help if:

Your child has ear discharge for more than two weeks

There is blood or a bad smell from the ear

Your child has hearing loss or trouble speaking

There is pain, swelling, or fever

Home care does not improve symptoms

Early treatment can prevent hearing loss and other problems. Therefore, do not wait if you notice these signs.

Conclusion and Call-to-Action

CSOM in children is a serious but treatable condition. With early care, most children recover fully. However, untreated CSOM can lead to hearing loss and affect learning. If you suspect your child has CSOM, consult Dr. Rajesh Kumar Sadangi, Consultant (ENT) at Krishna Vikash Multispecialty Hospital. Dr. Sadangi holds an MBBS, MS (ENT & Head & Neck Surgery) and offers personalized care to help protect your child’s hearing and overall health. Timely treatment is key.