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:

The statement "I sometimes feel dizzy and unsteady" indicates balance problems in the child.

Balance issues can occur in individuals with otitis media due to disturbances in the inner ear, affecting the vestibular system responsible for balance and spatial orientation.

Dizziness and unsteadiness are common symptoms associated with inner ear problems, including otitis media.

Therefore, this statement should be evaluated further to assess the child's balance and related concerns.

Choice B rationale:

The statement "My ear feels heavy" is related to a sensation in the ear and does not specifically indicate balance problems.

While otitis media can cause ear discomfort and pain, the sensation of heaviness alone does not provide information about the child's balance issues.

It is important to differentiate between symptoms related to ear discomfort and those indicating problems with balance.

Choice C rationale:

The statement "I have trouble swallowing" is not directly related to balance problems associated with otitis media.

Swallowing difficulties are typically not a primary symptom of otitis media.

This statement might indicate issues with the throat or esophagus but does not provide relevant information about the child's balance concerns.

Choice D rationale:

The statement "I can balance perfectly" suggests that the child does not experience balance problems.

This statement contradicts the typical symptoms associated with otitis media, which can include dizziness, unsteadiness, and balance issues.

If the child can balance perfectly, it indicates that their vestibular system, responsible for balance, is functioning normally and is not affected by otitis media.

and "Balance problems result from serous fluid in the ear canal.”.

Choice A rationale:

The statement that "The ear pain is usually mild and intermittent" is incorrect.

Ear pain associated with acute otitis media (AOM) is often severe and continuous, causing discomfort and distress to the affected individual.

Choice B rationale:

Irritability, manifested as crying or fussiness, is a common symptom of AOM.

Ear pain and pressure can cause considerable discomfort, leading to irritability and changes in behavior, especially in children.

Choice C rationale:

The statement "Hearing loss in AOM is typically severe" is incorrect.

While hearing loss can occur in AOM, it is not always severe.

The degree of hearing impairment can vary based on the severity of the infection and the presence of fluid in the middle ear.

Choice D rationale:

Balance problems resulting from serous fluid in the ear canal are correct.

Serous fluid buildup in the middle ear can affect the balance mechanisms, leading to balance issues and dizziness, especially in children.

This fluid buildup can cause pressure changes, impacting the normal functioning of the inner ear.

Choice E rationale:

Otorrhea, which refers to discharge from the ear, is not a common symptom of AOM.

Otorrhea is more commonly associated with chronic ear infections or other ear conditions but not necessarily with acute otitis media.