What causes middle ear infection?

The Eustachian tube connects the middle ear with the back of the nose and helps equalise pressure and drain fluid. During a Common Cold, swelling and mucus can narrow this passage. Allergic Rhinitis can cause similar swelling. Fluid that cannot drain may become a place where viruses or bacteria grow, leading to pressure, ear pain, reduced hearing or fever. In young children, the tube is shorter and less angled, so drainage can be more easily affected.

Ear pain can also come from pressure or inflammation without a bacterial infection. A clinician can examine the eardrum to distinguish these possibilities.

Offer fluids and rest, and use age-appropriate pain relief only as directed on the label or by a clinician. Do not put cotton buds, oil or unprescribed drops into the ear. Keep the ear dry if discharge is present. A clinician may recommend observation, treatment for a bacterial infection, or care for the underlying nasal congestion depending on the examination and the person's age and symptoms.

Arrange medical advice for significant ear pain, fever, hearing changes, symptoms that are worsening, or fluid or pus coming from the ear. Seek urgent care for swelling or redness behind the ear, severe dizziness, new facial weakness, unusual drowsiness, or a very unwell child. Prompt assessment is also sensible when symptoms follow an injury or occur in someone with reduced immunity.

Ask whether the eardrum shows trapped fluid, whether the cause appears viral or bacterial, and what warning signs should prompt review. You can also ask how to manage pain, whether hearing should be checked, and how to reduce nasal allergy or cold-related blockage.