A client is concerned about the consequences of otitis media.
Which of the following complications is mentioned in the text as a potential consequence of otitis media?

Choice A rationale:

Redness of the tympanic membrane can indicate inflammation, which is a common sign of acute otitis media (AOM).

Inflammation causes increased blood flow to the area, leading to redness and often pain.

Choice B rationale:

Bulging of the tympanic membrane occurs when there is increased pressure behind the eardrum, often due to fluid accumulation.

In the context of acute otitis media, this bulging is caused by the buildup of pus or other fluids in the middle ear.

Choice C rationale:

Purulence (pus) observed in the ear canal is a definitive sign of acute otitis media.

The presence of pus indicates an active infection within the middle ear.

Choice D rationale:

Orange discoloration of the tympanic membrane is not a typical finding in acute otitis media.

The color change could be due to various factors but is not specific to this condition.

Choice E rationale:

Decreased mobility of the tympanic membrane can occur due to the accumulation of fluid in the middle ear, leading to impaired movement.

This decreased mobility is often observed in acute otitis media and contributes to the diagnosis.

Choice A rationale:

Otitis media is not mainly caused by the presence of bacteria in the middle ear.

While bacterial infections can contribute to otitis media, it is not the primary cause as per the information provided in the text.

Choice B rationale:

Eustachian tube dysfunction is indeed the primary cause of otitis media.

The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the throat.

When this tube is not functioning correctly, it can lead to the accumulation of fluid in the middle ear, providing an ideal environment for bacterial growth and infection, which results in otitis media.

Choice C rationale:

Otitis media is not primarily caused by allergic reactions.

While allergies can lead to Eustachian tube dysfunction, it is not the main cause of otitis media.

Choice D rationale:

The statement that "The risk factors for otitis media are not well-defined" is incorrect.

The risk factors for otitis media are well-established, including factors like age (more common in children), exposure to smoke, attending daycare, and Eustachian tube abnormalities.