Ear Infections - Cause
Middle ear infections are caused by bacteria and viruses.
During a cold, sinus or throat infection, or an allergy attack, the eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ears to the throat, can become blocked. This stops fluid from draining from the middle ear. This fluid is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria or viruses to grow into an ear infection.
Understanding Swimmer's Ear -- Symptoms
The symptoms of swimmer's ear include: Itching inside the ear Watery discharge from the ear Severe pain and tenderness in the ear, especially when moving your head or when gently pulling on the earlobe A foul-smelling, yellowish discharge from the ear Temporarily muffled hearing (caused by blockage of the ear canal)
Read the Understanding Swimmer's Ear -- Symptoms article > >
- Bacterial infections . Bacteria cause most ear infections. The most common types are Streptococcus pneumoniae (also called pneumococcus), Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis.
- Viral infections. Viruses can also lead to ear infections. The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and flu (influenza) virus are the most frequent types found.
Causes of fluid buildup
When swelling from an upper respiratory infection or allergy blocks the eustachian tube, air can't reach the middle ear. This creates a vacuum and suction, which pulls fluid and germs from the nose and throat into the middle ear. The swollen tube prevents this fluid from draining. An ear infection begins when bacteria or viruses in the trapped fluid grow into an infection.
Inflammation and fluid buildup can occur without infection and cause a feeling of stuffiness in the ears. This is known as otitis media with effusion.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
