What is a potential outcome if otitis media is left untreated?

Leaving otitis media untreated can lead to a variety of complications, making the correct choice encompass all the potential outcomes.

Improvement over time is possible in some cases, particularly if the infection is mild or resolves spontaneously without treatment. However, this does not imply that the condition is without risks. Chronic ear pain can develop from persistent inflammation or ongoing infections, leading to discomfort and affecting the quality of life.

Severe hearing loss is another serious consequence of untreated otitis media, particularly if fluid builds up in the middle ear or if there are repeated infections that damage the structures involved in hearing. This can impact speech development in children and overall auditory function.

Given that otitis media can lead to a range of issues, including improvement in some cases, but also chronic pain and significant hearing loss in others, the choice that includes all outcomes recognizes the full spectrum of possible consequences when the condition is not addressed.