Ear infection or middle ear infection (Otitis Media) is a common childhood infection but it can occur at any age. The eardrum and the small space behind the eardrum are collectively known as the middle ear. Most episodes of ear infection do not require any treatment because they subside without assistance within a few days. Painkillers or antibiotics are prescribed in some cases of acute ear infections. Ear infection can be a potentially serious condition because it can lead to severe earache and hearing loss, but with prompt and effective treatment, hearing can be fully restored in most cases.


Causes and Risk Factors

It is important to obtain a clear understanding of the anatomy and functioning of the human ear to comprehend the causes of ear infection. The ear is divided into three parts: the outer ear that collects sound, the middle ear, which is a small, air-filled cavity separated from the outer ear by the extremely delicate eardrum, and the inner ear that transmits the sound waves to the brain. The middle ear is connected to the back of the throat by a tiny channel called the Eustachian tube. Ear infection is typically caused when bacteria, virus, or fungi cause inflammation of the middle ear.

Respiratory tract infections such as cold and flu lead to the accumulation of fluid (pus and mucus) behind the eardrum that blocks the Eustachian tube. Ear infection is more commonly observed among children because children have narrower and shorter Eustachian tubes and are more susceptible to upper respiratory tract infections. Infants in the age group of six to eighteen months are more likely to develop ear infections. However, ear infections are also commonly observed in children ranging from four months to four years old.