Otitis Media (OM) is characterized by an inflammation of the middle ear and is typically associated with an accumulation of fluid. This fluid may or may not be infected. Infection is usually a bacterial or viral infection secondary to a cold, sore throat, or other respiratory problem. When the fluid is not infected, it results in a condition called otitis media with effusion (OME). Another name for this condition is Serous otitis media. If the fluid in the middle ear becomes infected, then the condition is referred to as acute otitis media (AOM). In both cases, there is fluctuating loss in hearing, which returns to normal. Rarely can a permanent hearing loss occur.