Most ear infections form in the middle ear. The
eustachian tube carries fluid from the middle ear to the throat. Sometimes
during a cold, the eustachian tube becomes swollen and fluid is trapped in the
middle ear. Bacteria or viruses can grow in this fluid and form an ear
infection.
Primary Medical Reviewer
Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer
Charles M. Myer, III, MD - Otolaryngology
Last Updated
February 2, 2009
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
February 02, 2009
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