Otitis is a general term for infection or inflammation of the ear.

Ear infection; Infection – ear

Otitis can affect the inner or outer parts of the ear. The condition is classified according to whether it occurs suddenly and for a short time (acute) or repeatedly over a long period of time (chronic).

• Otitis externa (swimmer’s ear). Involves the outer ear and ear canal. A more severe form can spread into the bones and cartilage around the ear.
• Otitis media (ear infection). Involves the middle ear, which is located just behind the eardrum.
• Acute ear infection. Starts suddenly and lasts for a short period of time. It is often painful.
• Chronic ear infection. Occurs when the ear infection does not go away or keeps coming back. It may cause long-term damage to the ear.
• Otitis media with effusion. Occurs when there is thick or sticky fluid behind the eardrum in the middle ear, but there is no ear infection.