ABSTRACT
Otalgia is one of the most common reasons for seeking medical attention. The pain usually arises from inflammation in the middle or external canal of the ear (intrinsic causes). Viruses such as adenovirus, RSV and influenza are the most common causes of otitis media (OM). Pseudomonas and staphylococci are the most common causes of otitis externa (OE). Hearing impairment is either sensorineural or conductive. The conductive hearing impairment is very common: at least half of preschool children have one or more episodes of otitis media with effusion (OME), which is often a cause of varying degrees of hearing impairment, usually mild. Dizziness refers to a sensation of unsteadiness without the perception that the surroundings are rotating. Orthostatic hypotension is a prototype of this category. A young child with vertigo usually appears pale and frightened and/or suddenly falls to the ground, stumbles or is clumsy. Very often older children will describe a feeling of spinning or turning.
