A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY ON CAUSATIVE FACTORS, MANAGEMENT AND PREVENTIVE STRATEGIES OF ACUTE SUPPURATIVE OTITIS MEDIA IN A TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL

Acute Suppurative Otitis Media is a common infection of the middle ear, especially in children, associated with significant morbidity. This study aimed to evaluate the causative factors, management approaches, and preventive strategies of Acute Suppurative Otitis Media in a tertiary care teaching hospital. A prospective observational study was conducted over six months in a district hospital, Proddatur. Data were collected using a structured proforma from 120 patients diagnosed with Acute Suppurative Otitis Media. The most common causative factor identified was Eustachian tube dysfunction (48.3%), followed by recurrent infections, poor hygiene, improper feeding practices, and passive smoking. Medical management primarily included antibiotics, analgesics, and supportive therapy, which resulted in significant clinical improvement. Preventive strategies such as maintaining hygiene, avoiding passive smoking, and correct feeding practices were emphasized. The study concludes that early diagnosis, appropriate management, and awareness of preventive measures are crucial in reducing complications and recurrence of Acute Suppurative Otitis Media.