B05: Measles

B05.3: Measles complicated by otitis media

Measles are caused by viruses. With the measles, red and slightly raised spots form all over the body. You can cough, sneeze and have a sore throat. You may also get a high fever. Your eyes may sometimes be red and watery.

You middle ear has been inflamed by measles. The ear is a sensory organ that is used to hear and to maintain one's balance. There are 3 different areas in the ear: the outer ear, middle ear and inner ear. The middle ear begins behind the eardrum. It consists of the air-filled tympanic cavity and the 3 ossicles. The ossicles transmit sounds from the eardrum to the inner ear in the form of vibrations.

A middle ear inflammation can cause various symptoms. The person’s hearing is usually affected and the ear concerned is painful. Fluid may also be discharged from the ear.