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An ear infection is an inflammation of the middle ear, usually caused by bacteria, that occurs when fluid builds up behind the eardrum. In fact, ear infections are the most common reason parents bring their child to a doctor. Ear infections are more common in boys than girls. 1
In kids, the parts of the ear that drain fluid are shorter, more horizontal so they let bacteria and viruses find their way into the middle ear more easily than in adults. The tubes are also narrower, so more likely to get blocked. (3) That means they don't drain as well even when a young one is healthy. When the tubes are swollen or blocked with mucus due to a cold or other respiratory illness, fluid may not be able to drain. It creates just the right conditions for bacteria to thrive, which can lead to infection. And for some kids, it just happens more often. 2
A child’s immune system isn’t as effective as an adult’s because it’s still developing. This makes it harder for children to fight infections. 1
Other things that can put kids at risk include: 3
- Children who are exposed to cigarette smoke. Smoke causes inflammation of the eustachian tube, making ear infections more likely.
- Children who attend daycare, because they tend to have more colds.
- Children with allergies
Ear infections are not contagious, but the colds that sometimes cause them can be. Ear infections are common during winter weather, when many people get upper respiratory tract infections or colds (a child with an ear infection also might have cold symptoms, like a runny or stuffy nose or a cough). 3
Always ask your child’s doctor for more information about ear infection.
Dr. Jihad Fadel
Pediatrician
