Natural Course

Otitis media with effusion resolves spontaneously in about 50% of cases within 1 month and about 70% within 3 months of onset. The remaining 30% may progress to a chronic state or affect language and learning development.

Criteria for Observation

• Unilateral effusion with normal hearing — can be observed for up to 3 months.
• Bilateral effusion with hearing loss of 25 dB or more — consider ventilation tube insertion if it persists beyond 3 months.
• Recurrent acute otitis media (3 or more episodes in 6 months) — active treatment is recommended.

When Korean Medicine Treatment Begins

When the condition lasts more than 3 months or recurs repeatedly, herbal medicine that clears the Lung and transforms phlegm (cheongpye-hwadam) promotes absorption of the effusion and restores eustachian tube function. If you visit from the Dongincheon area, bringing your hearing test results helps us establish a treatment plan.