H65-H75: Diseases of middle ear and mastoid

H65: Nonsuppurative otitis media

Nonsuppurative otitis media, a group of conditions affecting the middle ear, involves inflammation that does not produce pus. The main forms of this condition are acute nonsuppurative otitis media and chronic nonsuppurative otitis media, which are characterized by sudden or persistent inflammation, respectively. Causes often include viral or bacterial infections that may arise after a cold, sinus infection, or allergies. Common symptoms include ear pain, reduced hearing, and a feeling of fullness or pressure in the ear. In some instances, a fever can occur, and in severe cases, the inflammation may result in fluid build-up behind the eardrum, called an effusion. Over time, it can lead to hearing difficulties and, in the case of chronic nonsuppurative otitis media, can progress to permanent hearing loss if untreated. This group of conditions primarily impacts the auditory system, specifically the middle ear.