Otalgia risk factors
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Raviteja Guddeti, M.B.B.S[2]
Overview
Overview
An immature immune system, developmental alterations of the eustachian tube, and frequent infections are the major risk factors in children. In adults, smoking, alcohol and immunosuppression form the major contributors among risk factors.
Risk Factors
Risk Factors
- Anatomic abnormalities
- Day care
- Siblings with otitis media
- Smoking in household
- Supine bottles
- Age older than 50 years, ESR greater than 50 mm per hour
- Coronary artery disease risk factors
- Diabetes or immunocompromised state
- Tobacco
- Alcohol
- Unilateral hearing loss
- Swimming
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