Asian Pacific Journal of Health Sciences
Yazarlar: Prakash Chandra Gupta, Sharmistha Chakravarty
Konular:-
DOI:10.21276/apjhs.2019.6.4.4
Anahtar Kelimeler:Otorrhoea,Ear Morbidities,Rural,Paediatric Cases,CSOM
Özet: Introduction: Paediatric population forms a considerable proportion of the total world’s population. Ear diseases in children are a major public health problem in developing countries. If left unattended, it may result in complications with various social and psychological problems for affected children and their families Looking at the serious consequences of ear diseases among children, it is important to know the burden of the problem with its correlates. This will help in formulating interventions for prevention and control. Prevention of ear diseases is possible only if the risk factors are known. Methods: Primary caregivers (mother/father/ guardians) of 100 ill children aged 2–10 years who came to seek medical care in out-patient department (OPD) for their children were interviewed. Study subjects fulfilling the inclusion criteria were selected by simple random sampling method. The study was conducted over a period of 4 months .Detailed Clinical Examination was done A pre-designed semi-structured questionnaire schedule was prepared in local language A thorough history and detailed general, otolaryngological, neurological, ophthalmological examination was done apart from Demographic profile. Results: 30 % children reported to OPD with ear complaints. 14 cases out of 30 belonged to age group of less than 5 years while 16 were more than 5 years of age. There was no statistically significant difference between age groups with respect to current ear complaints. Most common complaints were ear discharge (16%), foreign body (10%) and hearing loss (4%). About the practices of ear cleaning, 34 % caregivers reported that they do not clean the ear of the child while 66% reportedly used to clean the ear of the child. Significant difference existed between Educated and Non Educated group. Conclusion: This study presents important insight into the burden of ear morbidities in rural children. These findings can be used to plan future strategies for health education interventions about ear care in the community. The overall awareness regarding problems was poor in patients. There is a need to take immediate measures for prevention and control of common ear diseases in children. Ear care practices are associated with maternal education. Awareness campaigns about the common causes, complications and correct practices for ear care are recommended.