If your child is suffering from allergies or a cold that blocks his nasal passages, the eustachian tube’s lining can become blocked by congestion or by mucus in the tube. When this happens, the middle ear, which is usually full of air will build up with fluid. Any bacteria or viruses that enter the middle ear by means of the eustachian tube are then trapped. Bacteria and germs take advantage of this and breed in the fluid. This is how a middle ear infection occurs.
Otitis Media
Otitis media is a fancy name for inflammation of the inner ear. However, there are different forms of this infection. When your child’s pediatrician says she has an ear infection, in most cases she is referring to acute otitis media, which is normally fluid or pus in the middle ear that causes redness of the ear drum, pain and, in most cases, fever.
Most other forms of otitis media cause fluid build up in the middle ear for six weeks or more. This is called chronic otitis media. Another type that doesn’t necessarily mean your child’s inner ear is infected, is known as otitis media with effusion.
Your child’s pediatrician must determine which type of otitis media your child has in order to treat it effectively. Antibiotics aren’t necessary for all forms of ear infections and shouldn’t be given.
Why Middle Ear Infections?
Children between the ages of two and four years have frequent bouts of middle ear infection. Here’s why:
Children’s adenoids are large and can interfere with the eustachian tube’s openings.
A child’s eustachian tubes are more horizontal and shorter than those of adults. Bacteria and viruses can access the middle ear with ease because of this.
Your child’s immune system is underdeveloped until he turns seven. He is not able to fight ear infections as well as older children and adults.
Other Factors
Other factors that can cause frequent middle ear infections in children are: